Lifestyle
15 Boomer Habits That Come Off as Rude Today
What once seemed polite or normal can feel out of place today. Many habits that boomers grew up with don’t quite land the same way anymore. What used to be friendly or helpful may now come off as intrusive, out-of-touch, or inconsiderate. Here are 15 habits that often clash with how younger generations navigate respect and communication today.
Asking people about their salary.
Many boomers grew up with open conversations around income—part curiosity, part comparison. But today, that same question feels invasive. Younger people see money as private, and asking about salary during casual conversation can trigger discomfort or pressure. Unless someone offers that information themselves, bringing it up can feel like crossing a personal boundary, even if the intent was just to make conversation or show interest in their career.
Showing up unannounced.
Dropping by without a heads-up used to be friendly, spontaneous, and even expected in some communities. These days, though, it’s more likely to feel like an intrusion. With busy schedules and a preference for privacy, people now expect a text or call before someone shows up at their door. It’s not about being cold—it’s about respecting space. What once felt neighborly now comes off as ignoring someone’s need for downtime.
Commenting on weight or appearance.
Phrases like “You look thinner!” or “You’ve gained a bit of weight” might once have been seen as observations—or even compliments. But today, these comments often land as rude or judgmental. People are more aware of how such remarks can affect mental health, and even positive comments can be loaded. There’s a shift toward complimenting someone’s energy, effort, or spirit instead of focusing on their physical body.
Offering unsolicited advice.
Many boomers give advice as a sign of caring. But unsolicited tips, especially on parenting, careers, or relationships, can feel like overstepping. Younger generations prefer to ask for help when they need it. What’s meant as guidance often feels like judgment, especially if the advice isn’t grounded in the listener’s lived experience. Supportive listening goes a lot further today than well-meaning but unsolicited fixes.
Using speakerphone in public.
Years ago, using speakerphone in a store or café wasn’t seen as a big deal. However, today, it’s considered disruptive. People value quiet in shared spaces and don’t want to overhear someone else’s personal or business calls. With earbuds readily available, there’s an expectation to keep calls private. Broadcasting a conversation feels inconsiderate now, no matter how short or important the chat might be.
Making generalizations about “kids these days”.
Boomers might mean no harm when they say things like “No one wants to work anymore,” but younger people often hear it as a lazy stereotype. These broad comments ignore economic shifts, changing job markets, and evolving values. They can make younger generations feel misunderstood or unfairly judged. Today’s world is different, and assumptions based on the past don’t always reflect present-day realities.
Assuming shared beliefs or values.
Boomers often speak openly about religion, politics, or personal opinions, assuming others are on the same page. In today’s culture, that can come off as presumptive. People now expect sensitivity and openness around differing beliefs. What used to be safe topics in certain circles may now feel divisive or unwelcome. Many younger people prefer conversations that leave room for different life experiences and values.
Telling people to “smile more”.
This was once a common way to show kindness or encouragement, especially toward women. But now, telling someone to “smile” feels like policing their mood or behavior. It implies that others are owed a certain expression, even from strangers. Modern social norms recognize emotional autonomy, and people prefer to express themselves genuinely without the pressure to look cheerful when they may not feel that way.
Using outdated or insensitive terms.
Some words or phrases that were widely used decades ago are now seen as offensive or inappropriate. Boomers might use these out of habit, not realizing the impact. Language evolves, and what was once normal can now signal ignorance or disrespect. Being open to correction and updating vocabulary is seen today as a basic sign of empathy and social awareness—not political correctness, but simple consideration.
Criticizing someone’s parenting choices.
Boomers often share how they raised their kids as a way of helping. But parenting norms have changed, and what worked 30 years ago may not apply now. Critiquing modern approaches, like screen time limits, gentle parenting, or diet rules, can come off as undermining. Young parents often feel judged instead of supported. Offering to help rather than compare makes for a much more welcome interaction.
Telling others to “toughen up”.
“Just deal with it” was a common attitude in boomer households. But younger generations now prioritize mental health and emotional openness. Dismissing someone’s struggles with a line like “you just need to be stronger” feels invalidating. It’s not about coddling—it’s about recognizing that people cope differently. Listening with empathy, rather than pushing resilience, is more in line with today’s understanding of emotional well-being.
Asking about someone’s relationship status.
“What happened to that boyfriend?” or “Why aren’t you married yet?” were once casual questions. Now, they feel intrusive and pressure-filled. Modern relationships follow many paths, and personal timelines vary widely. These questions can make someone feel like they’re behind or doing life wrong. What feels like friendly interest to a boomer can come across as subtle judgment to someone younger.
Giving conditional gifts.
Boomers sometimes give gifts with an unspoken expectation—loyalty, praise, or compliance. But younger generations often see this as manipulative. They value clear boundaries, and a gift that comes with emotional strings can strain relationships. Today, the idea is that giving should be unconditional. If there’s an expectation involved, people prefer it to be discussed openly rather than attached quietly to a favor.
Mocking or dismissing new tech.
Jokes about TikTok or eye-rolls about streaming habits may seem lighthearted. But younger generations live in a digital world, and dismissing it often feels like a dismissal of their reality. Instead of joking that someone is always on their phone, asking what they’re watching or learning builds a bridge. Technology changes fast, but curiosity and respect always stay in style.
Interrupting or dominating conversations.
Some boomers are used to steering the discussion or speaking over others without realizing it. Today, that’s often seen as inconsiderate. People value being heard just as much as they value being understood. Cutting in or shifting focus can make others feel invisible. Modern etiquette leans toward equal space, where listening fully is just as important as sharing your own story.
Life after 40 is about breaking free from old molds and embracing what feels right. Wondering what that looks like? It’s a transformation that lets women redefine their priorities, choices, and purpose. Read on to discover the key shifts that come with this exciting new chapter.
Chasing Perfection In Appearance
There’s a freedom that comes with no longer obsessing over every flaw. Wrinkles and gray hair aren’t signs of aging; they’re badges of a life well-lived. These women embrace their natural beauty, no longer feeling pressured to look “perfect” for anyone but themselves.
Staying In Unfulfilling Jobs
A paycheck alone isn’t enough to keep you employed. Women over 40 realize that time is too precious to spend in a role that doesn’t bring them joy or purpose. Whether it’s a career change or pursuing a passion project, it’s about creating a life that is meaningful.
Fitting Into Traditional Gender Roles
The idea that women must fit neatly into predefined boxes—wife, mother, caregiver—is being replaced by something more freeing. In their 40s, women are no longer bound by society’s rules. They’re defining who they are on their own terms.
Getting Forced Into Considering Marriage For The Sake Of It
What truly matters is staying true to themselves and not fitting into a mold. Marriage has lost its hold as the ultimate goal for many of them. They have realized that fulfillment doesn’t depend on a traditional relationship but rather on embracing what brings them personal joy.
Conforming To Other People’s Expectations
Living according to their own values replaces the endless effort to meet external expectations. The desire to please others diminishes, and they have a stronger sense of self, fully realizing this freedom as they enter the 40s.
Feeling Guilt Around Motherhood Choices
As women embrace the 40s, the pressure to have children becomes less prominent. If they choose to wait or decide not to have children at all, the decision is theirs alone. For many, fulfillment is found in paths that don’t necessarily lead to motherhood.
Trying To Be Everything To Everyone
It’s no longer about being everything to everyone. Women let go of the impossible task of juggling everything and start prioritizing what truly matters. The realization that boundaries are essential comes into focus when they start the 4th decade.
Staying Silent About Their Needs
Why are women beyond their 30s empowered to ask for what they want? Because they’ve stopped letting others’ expectations dictate their choices. In work, relationships, or friendships, they confidently voice their needs and desires, putting themselves first.
Following Trends Instead Of Personal Style
Style takes on a new meaning as women age. Forty-year-old women realize that fashion isn’t about keeping up with trends. It’s about wearing what makes them feel confident and comfortable, to reflect their true selves with every outfit.
Sticking To One Career Path
The idea of being tied to one career path for life feels like a thing of the past. These women love the fluidity of career changes, side gigs, or even starting their own businesses. They’ve learned that it’s okay to evolve and try new things.
America’s infamous thieves remind us of the impact of crossing ethical lines. These individuals did not simply unlawfully take possessions—they disrupted lives and exploited trust. While some faced consequences, others escaped justice, leaving a complex legacy behind. Here are 10 of the most notorious thieves in the history of America.
Jesse James
In 1873, Jesse James and his gang orchestrated one of America’s first train robberies near Adair, Iowa. They derailed the locomotive and escaped with $3,000 in gold. Pursued relentlessly by law enforcement officers, James evaded capture for years but was ultimately betrayed and shot by a member of his gang.
D.B. Cooper
Dan Cooper, infamously known as D.B. Cooper, seized control of a Northwest Airlines flight in 1971, demanding $200,000 and four parachutes. After receiving the ransom, he parachuted into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest. A massive manhunt ensued, but Cooper was never found, leaving behind one of America’s greatest mysteries.
Jimmy Burke
Jimmy Burke masterminded the 1978 Lufthansa heist at JFK Airport, during which his crew stole $5 million in cash and $875,000 in jewelry. Despite meticulous planning, Burke’s associates became liabilities as they spent lavishly, which eventually drew the FBI’s attention. Burke avoided direct prosecution for the heist but faced incarceration for other offenses.
Alvin Karpis
Alvin Karpis, a key member of the Barker-Karpis gang, masterminded numerous robberies and kidnappings during the 1930s. Known for his calculating nature, Karpis became the first public enemy captured by J. Edgar Hoover. Despite his offense, his capture remains one of the FBI’s proudest moments.
Bernie Madoff
Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme began in the 1980s, when he was promising consistent returns to high-profile investors. The deception unraveled in 2008 during the financial crisis. Then, he was captured by the FBI and was sentenced to 150 years in detention. His scheme remains the largest financial theft in history and has devastated countless lives.
Willie Sutton
Between the 1920s and 1950s, Sutton used clever disguises to rob over 30 banks. Captured multiple times, Sutton’s escapes were as legendary as his heists and earned him the nickname “Slick Willie.”The famous quote, “Because that’s where the money is,” is often attributed to him when asked why he robbed banks; however, he denied saying this statement.
Anthony Curcio
In 2008, Anthony Curcio used Craigslist to recruit decoys dressed as landscapers and confused witnesses during his armored truck heist. The meticulously planned operation netted him $400,000, but a tip from a homeless man led to his arrest. Curcio’s story later became a case study in modern criminal ingenuity.
Belle Starr and Her Gang of Thieves
Known as the “Bandit Queen,” Belle Starr led a gang that specialized in horse theft during the late 1800s. A charismatic figure, she charmed her way out of legal trouble multiple times. Starr was eventually ambushed, and she lost her life. This cemented her legacy as an infamous outlaw of the Wild West.
Frank Morris
Using his remarkable IQ, Frank Morris escaped Alcatraz in 1962 alongside two accomplices. They crafted life vests and a makeshift raft from raincoats and used papier-mâché heads to trick guards. Despite extensive searches, Morris’s fate remains unknown, fueling speculation about whether he survived the treacherous waters.
The Newton Gang
Led by Willis, Joe, Jess, and Wylie (“Dock”) Newton, This gang became infamous for a spree of bank and train robberies in the early 20th century. On June 12, 1924, they executed the largest train robbery in U.S. history near Rondout, Illinois, stealing over $3 million in cash, bonds, and jewelry.
Right-handed dominance in design is so common that most people don’t even notice it. Left-handed individuals, however, encounter small frustrations in daily life due to these biased designs. Here are 20 everyday objects that cater to right-handed users.
Scissors
Standard scissors are designed so that the top blade aligns for a right-handed grip. Lefties using them experience misaligned blades and uneven cuts. While special left-handed scissors exist, they’re rare and could be more expensive. Many left-handers simply adapt by cutting awkwardly or using their non-dominant hand.
Computer Mice
Walk into any office, and you’ll see the mouse on the right. While lefties can move it, ergonomic designs still favor right-handers. Shared workstations make it worse—settings often need to be reconfigured daily. It’s a small thing, but it’s a constant frustration.
Credit Card Machines and ATMs
Card slots, number pads, and styluses at ATMs are designed for right-hand use. Lefties must awkwardly reach across or switch hands. Even touchscreen payment terminals assume a right-handed user, which makes signing receipts and entering PINs feel unnatural.
Door Handles and Locks
Most doors favor a right-handed push, and keyholes are placed for a natural right-hand turn. Left-handed people often find themselves fumbling with locks and twisting their wrists in uncomfortable ways. Public buildings, especially, seem to be designed under the assumption that everyone is right-handed.
Spiral Notebooks
Left-handed students know this struggle all too well. Spiral bindings press into the wrist, making writing painful. Three-ring binders? Even worse. Many lefties flip notebooks upside down or write at off angles to avoid discomfort. Meanwhile, right-handers remain blissfully unaware.
Can Openers
Most manual can openers require a right-hand turn. This means using an uncomfortable grip and struggling with an unnatural twisting motion for lefties. Left-handed versions exist, but they’re uncommon, so left-handers struggle with everyday kitchen task.
The Infamous Ink Smudge Problem
Lefties drag their hand across freshly written ink, smudging words as they write. Pens, markers, and even certain paper textures make it worse. Many left-handers develop a “hook” grip to avoid the mess, but this unnatural posture can lead to wrist strain over time.
Guitars and Musical Instruments
Music stores are stocked with right-handed guitars. Left-handed versions are rare and often more expensive. Many lefties flip right-handed guitars upside down—like Jimi Hendrix—and others learn to play the “wrong” way. Even violins and brass instruments are designed with right-handed players in mind.
Measuring Cups
Glass measuring cups from brands like Pyrex and Anchor Hocking often have their measurement markings printed on only one side—facing outward when held in the right hand. For left-handed users, they must turn the cup, guess the measurement, or swap hands to see the correct volume.
Video Game Controllers
Most game controllers place primary action buttons under the right hand. While the movement is controlled by the left, precise actions require a dominant right thumb. Even arcade machines follow this setup. Left-handed gamers adjust, but it’s another example of right-handed design dominance.
Zippers and Buttons
Clothing design has long favored right-handed people. Shirt buttons require a right-handed grip, zippers are placed for a natural right-hand pull, and even pockets are positioned for easy right-hand access. On the other hand, lefties take longer to get dressed, and others simply learn to adapt without thinking about it.
Cameras
Photography equipment doesn’t favor left-handers. Shutter buttons and grips are always positioned for right-handed operation, which makes it odd for lefties to hold and adjust settings. Even tripods and external flashes often require right-handed maneuvering and force left-handed photographers to adjust their technique.
Ballpoint Pens
Most people don’t realize that many pens are optimized for right-handed use. The ink flow in ballpoint pens relies on the natural angle and pressure of a right-hander’s stroke. Left-handers, who push rather than pull the pen across the page, often deal with skipping, fading ink, and an inconsistent writing experience.
Baseball Gloves
You’ll see dozens of right-handed baseball gloves in a sporting goods store. Left-handed gloves? Maybe a couple—if you’re lucky. The same applies to golf clubs and hockey sticks. Since most players are right-handed, manufacturers don’t prioritize producing left-handed gear in large quantities.
Measuring Tapes and Rulers
Numbers on most measuring tapes and rulers are printed to be easily read when held in the right hand. Some left-handers using a standard measuring tape often have to twist oddly, while others have to read numbers upside down. This makes precise measurements more complex than they need to be.
Cars and Vehicle Controls
From gear shifts to ignition placements, vehicle interiors assume right-hand dominance. Even in left-hand-drive countries, critical controls—like wiper switches and infotainment buttons—favor right-handed use. While left-handed drivers manage, the setup is never quite as intuitive for them.
Power Tools
Many power tools, including drills, saws, and nail guns, have safety switches and grips positioned for right-handed users. This isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a safety risk. Left-handers must use tools in an odd way and modify their grip, which can lead to dangerous mistakes.
Public Transport Ticket Machines
Have you ever noticed where the card reader is when you tap your metro card? It’s usually positioned for a smooth right-hand swipe. Lefties either have to reach across their body or switch hands to make it work. The same applies to ticket machines, which often have keypads set up for right-handers.
Kitchen Tools
Many kitchen utensils, from ice cream scoops to ladles, are ergonomically designed with a curved grip—shaped for a right-handed hold. This makes it difficult for left-handers to use them comfortably, forcing them to struggle with poor angles as others even buy specialized left-handed versions.
Supermarket Checkout Counters
Grocery store checkouts are structured for right-handed efficiency. Card readers are positioned for a smooth right-hand swipe, while conveyor belt controls favor right-handed cashiers. Even the bagging area is often set up for right-hand use and left-handed shoppers, and workers must adjust to the current system.
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