The 19 Hardest Truths to Accept in Life According to Boomers
We live in an age filled with hope and expectation; sometimes, seeing how the world is can be surprising. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that about 76.4 million baby boomers are in the U.S., the second-largest age group after millennials.
Boomers—the experience generation—have something extraordinary to say about life’s harsh truths, which we all must grapple with at some point. Often earned lessons offer a guide to living with ease and resilience.
Self-Acceptance
A study reported that people who regularly evaluate themselves against others suffer more from stress and anxiety. Boomers instill the need to work on self-improvement and self-love because there will always be someone better at something than you, but happiness is self-love.
Impermanence
The Buddhist concept of impermanence holds that all good and evil are fleeting. This knowledge can help you better enjoy the now. Boomers have experienced ups and downs; only change can stay the same.
Self-Reliance
Being able to see that no one is coming to rescue you can be overwhelming, but it is also resurgent. As one AARP survey points out, Boomers value independence and self-sufficiency—they realize that being an adult is about being in charge of your own life. This truth helps people learn to be resilient, independent, and ready for the unexpected.
Universal Likability
You’re not everybody’s favorite person, no matter how lovely and compassionate you might be. That fact can sometimes be freeing, removing the pressure to be what others want you to be.
A Gallup poll shows Boomers telling younger people they should care about authenticity over validation since authentic connections arise by being honest.
Friendship Evolution
Friendships come and go, and not all are for life. Many Boomers, says Pew Research, have already seen their friendships ebb and flow as life situations shift. They reassure us to cherish good relationships, even if friendships have their seasons.
Perception
You might be the bad guy in someone else’s tale, however well you wish to do good. This can be because people misunderstand or have different points of view.
According to Psychology Today, acknowledging this fact can make for a more sympathetic and forgiving relationship because we realize that we can’t control how others perceive us.
Physical Changes
The physical change brought about by age is natural. The National Institute on Aging says these shifts are difficult to make but also allow us to focus on health and well-being. Boomers demand that we embrace those shifts while still living.
Technology Gap
Technology is overwhelming. Boomers are among the many people surveyed by the Pew Research Center who feel displaced by the digital revolution. However, this can be closed by constant learning and adaptation so they can remain connected to the world.
Health Challenges
Chronic disease and medical problems are more common as we get older. ‘Succeeding at navigating these barriers requires proactive healthcare,’ says the CDC. Boomers suggest regular check-ups and good health to stave off old age.
Shrinking Circles
Social networks shrink by design with time. A 2014 Stanford Center on Longevity paper found that Boomers often prioritize family and good relationships over the length of their social lives.
Cultural Disconnect
The culture gap between boomers and other generations is a genuine phenomenon. A report from the American Psychological Association explains this, recommending open communication and curiosity as ways to connect between generations.
Professional Evolution
Drive and ambition usually change as we age, as does our relationship with work. Later in life, boomers choose satisfaction and work-life balance over job growth and want to ensure that their careers and values are in sync.
Random Events
Plan disruption: Life is haphazard, and randomness can set plans aflutter. Boomers talk about having the flexibility and attitude to bounce back from setbacks.
Reciprocity
Not everything that comes around is the norm, and karma is not always present in the world. Boomers encourage us to be kind and honest regardless of the outcome because it helps us have peace of mind.
Change in Others
You can’t recondition someone who doesn’t want to change. One report from the American Psychological Association focuses on loving people for who they are rather than molding them into something you wish them to be.
Independence Loss
As kids become teenagers and move away, there is a loss, but new growth occurs. This is called empty nest syndrome, and the U.S. Census Bureau says Boomers have energy for new activities and hobbies that often go untapped.
Physical Limitations
Although health maintenance can be challenging, we never grow any younger. The Mayo Clinic recommends moving and strengthening our bodies to help cope with these changes while keeping fit.
Social Relevance
Being socially relevant becomes more difficult as you age. AARP research has found that boomers who have participated in community and lifelong learning experiences feel they belong.
Legacy
It can be deflating to think that one’s legacy is forever lost. However, focusing on giving and connecting means one’s legacy lives on even after death.
Sometimes, life’s harshest truths are not always what we imagine them to be. The boomers have so much to teach us about embracing life’s curves. The more we know and accept these things, the happier and more secure we can live wise and robust lives. Mentors and communities can be good places to get support along this journey if you want to do more.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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