Modern trends boomers secretly support (even if they won’t admit it).
Boomers often criticize today’s “woke” culture, dismissing it as overly sensitive or idealistic. But the reality is, many of the progressive trends embraced by younger generations align with the values boomers championed in their youth. From environmental activism to workplace flexibility, these so-called “woke” ideas aren’t so different from the causes boomers once fought for.
Here are the trends boomers secretly approve of—whether they’ll admit it or not.
1. Sustainable living and environmental consciousness.
Boomers may scoff at Gen Z’s obsession with reusable straws and composting, but they were the original environmental activists. They helped launch Earth Day in 1970, fought against pollution, and pushed for the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Now, as younger generations take the lead in fighting climate change, many boomers quietly approve. They may not use the term “eco-conscious,” but they respect efforts to reduce waste and protect the planet for future generations, according to Savvy Dime.
2. Buying quality over quantity.
Boomers grew up in a time when people valued well-made products that lasted—not fast fashion and disposable goods. While they might grumble about younger generations rejecting big-box stores, they secretly admire the trend of buying fewer, higher-quality items.
From investing in durable cookware to choosing classic wardrobe staples over trendy fast fashion, today’s emphasis on sustainability and craftsmanship aligns with the boomer mindset of “buy it once, buy it right.”
3. Prioritizing mental health.
Boomers were raised in an era where therapy was taboo and mental health struggles were often dismissed as personal weakness. But as mental health awareness has grown, many boomers have quietly embraced the idea that emotional well-being matters.
According to Boston Globe, whether it’s seeking therapy later in life, encouraging their grandchildren to express their emotions, or recognizing the importance of work-life balance, boomers are far more open to mental health discussions than they let on.
4. Work-from-home and flexible schedules.
Boomers might grumble about younger workers not wanting to be in the office, but deep down, they understand. After decades of commuting, rigid 9-to-5 schedules, and workplace burnout, many boomers wish they’d had the same flexibility in their careers.
Now that some of them are retiring or semi-retired, they see the benefits of remote work firsthand. They enjoy the freedom to work on their own terms—whether it’s consulting, freelancing, or even just staying connected with family via Zoom.
5. Plant-based eating and healthy lifestyles.
Boomers love a good steak, but many of them are secretly on board with plant-based eating. Whether it’s for health reasons, environmental concerns, or just trying to keep up with their grandkids, they’re warming up to meat alternatives, organic produce, and whole-food diets.
Even if they joke about avocado toast, many boomers have adopted healthier habits, like cutting back on processed foods, drinking green smoothies, or even experimenting with vegetarian meals. After all, staying active and eating well is a big part of aging well.
6. Minimalism and downsizing.
For years, boomers accumulated furniture, collectibles, and knickknacks—only to realize later in life that they don’t want all the clutter. While they might roll their eyes at Marie Kondo, many boomers are secretly embracing the idea of “less is more.”
Downsizing to a smaller home, clearing out the garage, or getting rid of decades’ worth of “stuff” has become a priority. And while they might not call it minimalism, they certainly appreciate the freedom that comes with simplifying their lives.
7. Supporting small and local businesses.
Boomers remember when shopping meant going to the local butcher, baker, or mom-and-pop hardware store. So, while they might complain about younger generations avoiding big retailers, they secretly admire the push to support small businesses and shop local.
Many boomers now make an effort to buy from farmers’ markets, family-owned restaurants, and local artisans. They may not frame it as an anti-corporate stance, but they certainly appreciate the value of keeping money in their communities.
8. Fighting for workers’ rights.
Boomers grew up during a time when unions were strong, wages were fairer, and job security was more reliable. While some might complain about Gen Z’s demands for better working conditions, they also remember when their own generation fought for things like the 40-hour workweek, minimum wage laws, and paid time off.
Many boomers quietly support younger generations pushing for better pay, benefits, and work-life balance—because deep down, they know how much those battles mattered in their own time.
9. Redefining gender roles.
Boomers may have been raised with traditional gender roles, but they also witnessed (and participated in) the women’s liberation movement. They saw women enter the workforce in record numbers, challenge outdated expectations, and demand equal rights.
While some older boomers still cling to old-school gender norms, many others appreciate seeing their daughters, granddaughters, and even sons reject outdated roles in favor of true equality. They may not always say it out loud, but they respect the shift.
10. Ditching formal dress codes.
Boomers grew up in an era of strict dress codes—suits at the office, dresses at social events, and absolutely no casual Fridays. But over time, even they started to embrace comfort.
While they might joke about Gen Z’s love of sweatpants, many boomers have ditched their own rigid wardrobe rules. Retirees especially love their sneakers, jeans, and athleisure wear, proving that comfort has won over formality.
11. Calling out corporate greed.
Boomers witnessed firsthand the shift from community-oriented businesses to giant multinational corporations that prioritize profits over people. While some still defend capitalism, many secretly cheer on younger generations calling out corporate corruption, wage gaps, and unethical business practices.
After all, boomers themselves protested against corporate greed in the ‘60s and ‘70s. While they might not always agree with the tactics, they understand the frustration behind the movement.
12. Embracing lifelong learning.
Boomers grew up in a world where education was a one-time deal—you finished school, got a job, and stuck with it. But today, lifelong learning is the norm, and many boomers are fully on board.
Whether they’re taking online courses, picking up new hobbies, or diving into self-improvement books, boomers love staying engaged and curious. Even if they roll their eyes at younger generations’ constant reinvention, they respect the idea that learning never stops.