7 Gen-Z lifestyle habits that most Boomers are secretly envious of (but will never admit)

There’s a fascinating contrast between Gen-Z and Baby Boomers’ lifestyles. Yet, it’s hard to deny that there are certain Gen-Z habits that Boomers secretly admire, even if they don’t openly confess.

We’re talking about habits that align with authenticity, self-growth, and an undeniable awareness of oneself. Practices that reflect a lifestyle not just focused on the present, but one that is mindful of the future too.

Gen-Z, the digital natives, have cultivated habits that are not just trendy but also sustainable. And let’s face it, Boomers might not admit it, but they are secretly envious and even inspired by these traits.

So let’s dive into those seven lifestyle habits of Gen-Z that most Boomers covertly covet but would never openly admit.

1) Embracing digital technology

Let’s face it, Gen-Z were practically born with smartphones in their hands.

This generation is tech-savvy, using digital tools and platforms to simplify their lives, connect globally, and even shape their careers. They’ve turned the digital world into a playground, and it’s not just about social media or online games.

And here’s where we see the Boomers secretly admiring Gen-Z. While Boomers might grumble about excessive screen time, there’s a part of them that appreciates the ease with which Gen-Z navigates technology.

From mastering the latest apps to creating a personal brand online, Gen-Z’s digital fluency is something many Boomers wish they could emulate, even if they won’t openly admit it. They see the potential for growth and self-expression in this digital landscape, and can’t help but feel a tinge of envy.

But remember, it’s not about becoming a tech expert overnight. It’s about embracing the digital era, learning and growing at your own pace. Because that’s what Gen-Z does best.

2) Prioritizing mental health

We can’t talk about Gen-Z without mentioning their focus on mental health. The younger generation is more open about discussing their feelings, mental health struggles, and therapy experiences. They’ve made self-care and mental health a priority – something that was often stigmatized or overlooked in the Boomer’s time.

I’ll be honest, as a Boomer myself, I’ve realized how much we could have benefitted from this open dialogue about mental health. I remember growing up believing that talking about feelings or admitting to struggle was a sign of weakness. Now, I see Gen-Z openly discussing it, advocating for mental health, and I can’t help but admire their bravery.

They’ve made it clear that it’s okay not to be okay all the time, and that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but of strength. It’s a refreshing perspective that many Boomers, including myself, find inspiring and secretly wish we’d had when we were their age.

3) Sustainable living

Gen-Z is leading the charge when it comes to sustainable living. They’re conscious consumers who are more likely to support brands that align with their values, especially when it comes to the environment. This generation’s commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting a cleaner, greener planet is impressive.

Did you know that according to a study by First Insight, 73% of Gen-Z are willing to pay more for sustainable products? That’s a significant number.

And yes, Boomers are taking notice. They admire the younger generation’s dedication to sustainability and their willingness to change their lifestyle for the betterment of the planet. Even if they don’t openly admit it, many Boomers are inspired by Gen-Z’s eco-conscious habits and are making changes in their own lives.

4) Embracing diversity and inclusivity

Gen-Z is a generation that truly values diversity and inclusivity. They champion equal rights, social justice, and representation for all, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or socioeconomic status.

They’ve grown up in a world that’s more diverse than ever before, and they’re using their voices to advocate for change. They’re not afraid to challenge outdated norms and push for equality in all aspects of life.

Boomers can’t help but admire this passion for social change. While they may not always understand the many nuances of today’s social justice movements, they see the impact Gen-Z is making, and they respect it. They’re secretly envious of this generation’s courage to stand up and speak out, even when it’s hard.

The world is changing, and Gen-Z is leading the way with their unwavering belief in equality for all.

5) Flexibility and adaptability

This is something that resonates with me. Gen-Z’s ability to adapt to change and their flexibility towards life is truly admirable. They’ve grown up in a fast-paced world, where technology and societal norms are always evolving, and they’ve learned to roll with the punches.

I remember the time when I was struggling to adapt to remote work during the pandemic. It was Gen-Z who were effortlessly moving their lives online, juggling work, studies, and social lives digitally. They took it all in stride.

This adaptability is something many Boomers, including myself, wish we embodied more of. We lived in a more stable era, where change wasn’t as rapid. So, seeing Gen-Z handle these shifts with such ease leaves us not just envious but also inspired to be more adaptable ourselves.

6) Focus on experiences

Gen-Z is a generation that values experiences over material possessions. They’re more interested in traveling, attending concerts or festivals, trying new foods, and creating memories rather than accumulating stuff.

It’s a shift from the traditional consumerist mentality, and Boomers are taking notice. They see the joy and fulfillment these experiences bring to Gen-Z’s life and how it contributes to their overall personal growth.

While Boomers grew up in an era where success was often measured by material wealth, they can’t help but admire the richness of experiences that Gen-Z prioritizes. It’s a lifestyle habit that many Boomers secretly wish they’d adopted earlier in their lives.

7) Authenticity

Above all, Gen-Z values authenticity. They’re not afraid to be themselves, quirks and all. They embrace their individuality and aren’t shy to express it. This generation believes in being true to themselves and standing up for what they believe in.

Boomers, who were often taught to conform and fit in, find this unabashed authenticity refreshing. They see Gen-Z living authentically, without fear of judgment, and it’s something they secretly envy.

Authenticity isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being real. And that’s something we can all learn from Gen-Z.

Final thoughts: It’s all about perspective

As we dissect these Gen-Z lifestyle habits that Boomers secretly admire, it’s essential to remember that it’s not about one generation being better than the other. It’s about understanding and learning from each other.

These habits – embracing technology, prioritizing mental health, living sustainably, advocating for diversity, being adaptable, valuing experiences, and living authentically – aren’t exclusive to Gen-Z. They’re traits any of us can adopt and incorporate into our lives.

According to a study by Deloitte, Gen-Z believes that companies should help address social and environmental issues. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a testament to the mindset of this generation.

So, whether you’re a Boomer or belong to any other generation, there’s a lot we can learn from Gen-Z. Their habits are not just admirable; they’re inspiring and indicative of a world that values authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability.

As we move forward, let’s take a page from Gen-Z’s book. Let’s learn from their approach to life and consider how we can integrate these habits into our own lives. After all, it’s never too late to evolve and grow.