As generations evolve, so do societal norms, technologies, and cultural trends. Generation X, born roughly between the early 1960s and late 1970s, grew up in a world vastly different from today’s digital landscape.
While they’ve adapted to many changes, some things might leave them scratching their heads. Here are 15 things Gen X is too old to understand:
TikTok Fame
The concept of achieving fame and influence through short, quirky videos on platforms like TikTok might seem perplexing to Gen X. They grew up in an era where fame was typically reserved for actors, musicians, and other traditional celebrities, not everyday individuals with smartphones.
Crypto Craze
Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology remain a mystery to many Gen Xers. The decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies and the complexities of blockchain networks can be challenging to grasp, especially for those who grew up in a world dominated by traditional banking systems.
Cancel Culture
The phenomenon of “canceling” individuals or entities for perceived offensive actions or statements is a concept that might baffle Gen X. While they understand criticism and consequences, the speed and intensity of online backlash and its impact on reputations may seem foreign.
Gender Fluidity
The fluidity of gender identity and the acceptance of non-binary and transgender individuals represent a significant shift in societal understanding since Gen X’s youth. Concepts like gender pronouns and the dismantling of traditional gender roles may be difficult for some to comprehend fully.
Streaming Wars
With the rise of numerous streaming platforms offering exclusive content, Gen X might find it overwhelming to keep up with the constant battle for viewership. Gone are the days of simply flipping through channels on cable TV; now, subscription services and original programming dominate the entertainment landscape.
Meme Culture
While humor has always been a part of human culture, the internet’s evolution has birthed a unique form of humor: memes. Gen X might struggle to understand the humor behind viral images and videos that often reference obscure internet culture or inside jokes.
Influencer Marketing
The idea of individuals monetizing their online presence to promote products and brands might seem bizarre to Gen X. Traditional advertising methods like TV commercials, and print ads were more prevalent during their formative years, making influencer marketing a relatively new concept.
Gaming as a Spectator Sport
The rise of esports and the popularity of platforms like Twitch, where people watch others play video games, may leave Gen X scratching their heads. While they’re familiar with gaming as a hobby, the idea of millions tuning in to watch competitive gaming tournaments might seem like a foreign concept.
App-Based Dating
Gen Xers grew up in an era of meeting potential romantic partners through friends, at bars, or other social gatherings. The concept of swiping through profiles on apps like Tinder or Bumble to find a date might feel impersonal or strange to those accustomed to more traditional dating methods.
Virtual Reality (VR)
While virtual reality has been a concept in sci-fi for decades, the widespread availability and use of VR technology today might be bewildering to Gen X. The idea of immersing oneself in a digital environment for gaming, socializing, or other activities can seem like something out of a futuristic movie.
Subscription-Only Content
With the rise of subscription-based content platforms like Patreon, where creators offer exclusive content to paying subscribers, Gen X might find themselves puzzled by the idea of paying for online content beyond traditional media subscriptions.
DIY Culture
The prevalence of do-it-yourself (DIY) culture, especially on platforms like YouTube and Pinterest, might be a departure from the consumer-centric mindset of previous generations. Gen Xers might find it fascinating or confusing that people can learn how to do almost anything themselves with the help of online tutorials and communities.
Climate Activism
While environmentalism has been a concern for decades, the urgency and activism surrounding climate change today represent a new level of awareness and engagement, particularly among younger generations. Gen X might struggle to understand the scale of the climate crisis and the passion driving today’s youth-led movements.
Remote Work Norms
The widespread acceptance of remote work, accelerated by technological advancements and the COVID-19 pandemic, might be a departure from the traditional office culture that Gen X grew up with. The idea of working from home or collaborating with colleagues across the globe through digital platforms may seem unconventional.
Livestreaming Everything
From live streaming everyday activities on platforms like Facebook Live to broadcasting major events and conferences online, the concept of sharing life in real-time might be overwhelming to Gen X. While they’re accustomed to documenting moments through photographs and videos, the immediacy and ubiquity of live streaming can be a bit perplexing.
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Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. Victoria writes for multiple media outlets where she writes about, saving money, retirement, ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.