Finding Humor in Relatable Generational Quirks
While Gen Z and Millennials often poke fun at “boomer” habits, many young Singaporeans admit they’ve experienced moments that feel uncannily like their parents’ or grandparents’ quirks. From resisting modern conveniences to embracing thrifty habits, these anecdotes offer a humorous look at the subtle ways we all age into certain behaviors.
James, 17, proudly uses a free tote bag he queued 30 minutes to snag at a kids’ event as his polytechnic school bag, unapologetic about the practicality of his choice.
For Marcus, 32, a boxing coach, the realization came through his frustration with teenagers’ loud music and his newfound love for balcony gardening. “Am I officially too old to relate to the youth?” he wonders, acknowledging both the cringe and the quiet joys of embracing his inner boomer.
Alex, 31, drew laughter from a Gen Z friend when he whipped out a giant 300-piece tissue packet during lunch. Purchased online for its unbeatable value, it’s a personal triumph of frugality.
Bel, 22, found unexpected joy in scoring cheap leeks at Sheng Siong and reminisces about exploiting Carl’s Jr.’s salsa bar for take-home dips. Meanwhile, SQ, 26, hilariously caught herself saying, “Back in my day,” to an 18-year-old friend, sparking mutual laughter.
For Y, 30, the generational divide became apparent on a trip to Bali. While their Gen Z friends slept until noon, Y rose early for yoga, cooking classes, and gym sessions, embracing the carpe diem lifestyle.
Dietary choices also betray some “boomer” tendencies. Mei Gan, 28, indulges in herbal teas and cooling desserts for health benefits, while Isilwen, 37, finds late nights unbearable and avoids nightlife entirely.
Leslie, 35, resisted shopping apps for years, preferring in-store purchases. Recently, he’s come to appreciate the convenience of online grocery delivery, though the change wasn’t easy. Similarly, J, 21, avoids late-night outings with excuses about early commitments, admitting he lacks the stamina of his peers.
The quirks extend to language too. J humorously questions his friends’ energy for clubbing, while others admit to using terms like “youngsters,” a classic boomer staple.
These stories reveal that as much as we joke about older generations, their habits sneak into our lives sooner than we think—offering both laughs and lessons in embracing the inevitable.
