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We've all been taught to respect the wisdom of our elders, but in today's world, is advice from Boomers really relevant anymore?
Think about it: this generation, born between 1946 and 1964, got to benefit from easier access to entry-level positions, more affordable home prices, and much cheaper college tuition rates. Nowadays, younger generations are grappling with housing shortages, high mortgage rates, student loans, and an extremely competitive job market.
So, whether it's about career choices or money management, here are some classic pieces of outdated Boomer advice that haven't aged well and need a refresh.
Scroll to see all the old-fashioned Boomer advice that just didn't age well...
1. "Follow your dreams."
This phrase became a mantra for many Boomers, pushing the idea that pursuing passion and fulfillment in work should be a top priority. Unfortunately, that's just not realistic any more.
Sure, passion is important, but the reality is that dreams don't always pay the bills or ensure financial stability. Today, many people find themselves balancing passion with practicality by taking on side gigs, freelancing, or choosing careers that might not be their ultimate dream job but offer security.
2. "You can pull yourself up by your bootstraps."
Pulling yourself up by your bootstraps has long been hailed as the hallmark of self-made success. It suggests that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness through pure hard work and determination.
However, younger generations agree that's just not the case in 2025. With growing economic inequalities, skyrocketing housing costs, and student debt, that proverbial bootstrap can feel pretty elusive. For many, the idea of pulling yourself up isn't as simple as working harder; it's a matter of having access to the right opportunities and resources.
3. "You can be whatever you want."
Again, just because someone wants to be a lawyer or doctor (and is willing to work hard) doesn't mean they can. Sure, the idea of limitless potential sounds inspiring, but it blatantly overlooks the systemic barriers that so many people face.
In the modern era, the road to success is often paved by factors beyond anyone's control, like access to education, family wealth, and even geography. The harsh truth is that "being whatever you want" is a lot harder with these obstacles in the way.
4. "Go to college, get a degree, and you'll be set."
It was once thought that a degree would immediately open the door to a stable, well-paying job and a secure future. While college education is still valuable today, it's no longer a guarantee of success, especially due to crippling student debt and a more competitive job market than ever.
Many graduates still find themselves underemployed or stuck in jobs they didn't really want. So, unfortunately, degrees are no longer surefire tickets to successful careers.
5. "You should buy a home instead of wasting money on renting."
Homeownership was a milestone viewed as a mark of stability and success. Meanwhile, renting was considered a temporary solution.
Even so, high home prices and interest rates, coupled with housing shortages, have left plenty of young people simply unable to buy their own property. Instead, renting has now become a long-term reality for many.
6. "It's taboo to talk about money."
Talking about income or other financial matters used to be considered tacky or inappropriate. Yet, salary transparency is more important than ever in 2025.
Wage inequality and pay gaps are major issues, and openly discussing money helps ensure people are fairly and equally compensated in the workplace. Many employees now recognize the power of sharing their salary as a way to hold their bosses accountable and help others negotiate better pay.
7. "Just save your money."
Pavel Danilyuk
Anyone with a Boomer parent has probably been told that if they "just" set aside a portion of their income, they'll be set for the future. That's not true anymore.
With inflation and rising living costs, stashing cash away in the bank isn't enough to secure financial stability. Not to mention, many people can't even keep up with the increasing costs of essentials, let alone saving to build wealth. Instead, budgeting, investing, and strategic financial planning are essential for money management today.
8. "Settle down and start your family."
Last but not least, settling down and starting a family used to be viewed as the natural next step in adulthood. But this advice doesn't resonate the same with younger generations.
The pressure to settle down has been replaced with a desire to achieve personal growth, career advancement, and financial independence first. Also, starting a family isn't a one-size-fits-all goal anymore, especially amidst evolving gender roles and an increased focus on mental well-being. That's why more people are choosing a path that feels right for them as opposed to following a set timeline.
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