You might be being rude without even realizing it, and people are too polite to tell you.
Some habits are so ingrained that they feel completely normal—until someone points out how frustrating they are. Boomers have their own set of social norms, but times change, and what once seemed acceptable might now come off as dismissive, condescending, or just plain rude.
If you’ve ever noticed people giving you side-eye or cutting conversations short, it could be because of one of these everyday habits that are rubbing people the wrong way.
1. Interrupting people mid-sentence because you “already know” what they’re going to say.
Finishing someone’s sentence or cutting them off might seem like a sign of engagement, but it often comes across as dismissive, according to Live Bold & Bloom. Younger generations, especially, value being heard, and interrupting signals that their thoughts aren’t important enough to let them finish.
Pausing and fully listening before responding not only makes conversations smoother but also shows that you respect the other person’s perspective. Even if you think you know what they’re going to say, letting them say it anyway strengthens your connection with them.
2. Talking about “the good old days” like they were perfect.
Nostalgia is great, but constantly reminiscing about how much better things used to be can make younger people feel like their experiences aren’t valid. Every generation faces its own challenges, and dismissing the present in favor of the past can seem tone-deaf.
Instead of focusing on how things were “better,” try recognizing how different times bring different struggles. According to Your Tango, acknowledging the difficulties young people face today fosters understanding instead of frustration.
3. Giving unsolicited advice like it’s gospel.
Sharing wisdom is great—when it’s wanted. But constantly offering advice without being asked can feel patronizing, especially when it assumes younger people don’t already have their own solutions or perspectives.
If you feel the urge to give advice, ask first. A simple, “Do you want my thoughts on that?” can make all the difference. It gives the other person control over the conversation and prevents your well-intended advice from feeling like a lecture.
4. Complaining about “kids these days” in front of younger people.
Few things alienate younger generations faster than lumping them all into one category and criticizing them. Complaints about work ethic, values, or social habits often overlook the realities they face and just come across as condescending.
Instead of generalizing, try asking questions. Learn about their perspectives and challenges rather than assuming the worst. It’s a much better way to bridge the generational gap.
5. Oversharing personal details with people you just met.
Boomers tend to be comfortable sharing personal stories and medical details, but younger people often find this overwhelming or awkward. There’s a fine line between being open and making others uncomfortable with too much information too soon.
Reading social cues and pacing personal details in conversations helps keep interactions more balanced. Not every conversation needs to include the latest doctor’s visit or financial woes.
6. Expecting immediate responses to emails and texts.
Younger generations live in a world where communication happens across multiple platforms, and instant responses aren’t always realistic. Assuming that a delayed reply means disrespect or disinterest can create unnecessary tension.
Recognizing that people have different communication styles and time constraints leads to better interactions. A little patience goes a long way in today’s fast-moving world.
7. Commenting on people’s appearances in ways that feel outdated.
Saying someone “looks healthy” or commenting on their weight—even with good intentions—can feel intrusive or inappropriate. Body positivity and personal boundaries have evolved, and what might have once been a harmless comment can now seem insensitive.
Instead of focusing on physical appearance, try complimenting personality traits, accomplishments, or personal style. It keeps conversations positive without crossing personal boundaries.
8. Assuming everyone wants to talk on the phone instead of texting.
Phone calls used to be the gold standard for communication, but today, many people prefer texts or voice messages. Calling without warning can feel disruptive, and expecting long phone conversations can be exhausting for those who prefer quick exchanges.
Checking in with a simple text first—“Hey, is now a good time to chat?”—can prevent frustration and show consideration for the other person’s time.
9. Dismissing mental health struggles as overblown.
Boomers grew up in a time when mental health wasn’t widely discussed, but younger generations are far more open about it. Calling anxiety, depression, or burnout a sign of weakness or “just part of life” can make people feel invalidated and unwilling to open up.
Validating people’s feelings, even if you don’t fully understand them, can help build stronger relationships. Sometimes, a simple “That sounds tough, I’m here for you” is more helpful than trying to offer an immediate solution.
10. Correcting grammar and pronunciation unnecessarily.
Language evolves, and younger generations communicate differently than boomers did. Constantly correcting slang, grammar, or pronunciation can feel nitpicky and condescending, even if it’s done with good intentions.
Unless someone asks for a correction, letting minor language differences slide keeps conversations flowing naturally and avoids unnecessary tension.
11. Assuming younger people don’t know anything about history or culture.
It’s easy to assume younger generations lack historical knowledge just because they didn’t live through certain events. But today’s youth have access to more information than ever, and assuming ignorance can come across as dismissive.
Engaging in discussions rather than quizzing or lecturing can make learning and sharing knowledge a two-way street. Respect goes both ways, and mutual curiosity makes for better conversations.
12. Expecting traditional etiquette rules to still apply in modern settings.
Holding doors open, sending thank-you notes, or following old-school formalities isn’t inherently bad, but expecting everyone to abide by outdated etiquette can feel unnecessary. Social norms change, and younger generations prioritize authenticity over rigid politeness.
Adapting to evolving social expectations rather than insisting on outdated rules makes interactions smoother. Flexibility and understanding go a long way in modern communication.
13. Judging people for not following a traditional life path.
Not everyone is getting married, buying a house, or working a 9-to-5 job these days. Judging younger people for choosing unconventional careers or lifestyles can come off as dismissive of their unique goals and circumstances.
Supporting people’s choices, even if they look different from past generations, fosters stronger relationships. Happiness doesn’t look the same for everyone, and that’s okay.
14. Acting like technology is ruining the world.
Younger generations have grown up with technology, and blaming it for every societal issue ignores the benefits it brings. Complaining about smartphones, social media, or video games without acknowledging their positives makes boomers seem out of touch.
Being open to understanding how technology enhances connection and learning can help bridge the generational gap. Instead of resisting change, embracing new tools fosters stronger connections with younger people.