Let’s be real. If you’ve ever said, “Ugh, you just don’t get it!” to your parents, welcome to the club. It’s the universal anthem of Gen Z. Whether it’s explaining TikTok trends, defending your third Starbucks trip of the day, or convincing them that yes, being a content creator is a real job, it can feel like you’re living on completely different planets. But don’t worry, bestie, I got you. Here’s your ultimate survival guide to dealing with parents who think “going viral” is a medical diagnosis.
1. Decode Their Language
Okay, think of it like translating a foreign language, but instead of Spanish or French, it’s “Boomer.” If your mom says, “You’re always on that phone,” what she really means is “I miss talking to you.” Sometimes, their confusion is just love in disguise. Decode their words, and you might find common ground (or at least avoid an eye-roll battle).
2. Drop Pop Culture References Sparingly
Look, explaining what “rizz” is to your dad could be fun, but maybe don’t start by using it in a serious life talk. Too many TikTok slang words and they’ll check out faster than you can say “slay.” Keep it simple, relatable, and if you must explain, keep it short. Less is more, queen.
3. Show, Don’t Just Tell
Trying to explain why being a YouTuber is a real hustle? Show them the hours of editing, the brand deals, and the analytics you’re tracking. Let them peek behind the curtain, and suddenly, they might start seeing you less as a lazy couch potato and more as a marketing genius in the making.
4. Use the Power of Humor
Sometimes the best way to dodge the awkward “back in my day” lectures is to laugh it off. When they start talking about how they “walked uphill both ways to school,” hit them with, “Sounds like a great cardio routine.” Keep it light. Humor diffuses tension and reminds them that you’re not here to start a war.
5. Choose Your Battles
Not every disagreement needs to be a full-blown debate. If they think you’re wasting your life watching reality TV, let them. You’ll never convince them that “Love Island” is educational (even though, hello, it totally teaches psychology). Save your energy for the things that actually matter.
6. Educate with Empathy
It’s easy to feel frustrated when they just don’t get it, but remember, they grew up in a totally different world. Try explaining why mental health days are important or why the “9-to-5” isn’t everyone’s dream. Be patient, be kind, and maybe they’ll surprise you with some Gen X wisdom.
7. Find Common Ground
Believe it or not, your parents aren’t aliens (well, probably). There’s common ground somewhere. Maybe it’s a shared love of music, food, or a mutual disdain for slow Wi-Fi. Focus on the things you do agree on, and build from there.
Bottom line? Dealing with parents who just don’t understand you is basically a rite of passage. But with a little patience, a dash of humor, and a sprinkle of strategic eye-rolls, you can survive, and maybe even thrive. Remember, they’re not trying to ruin your vibe; they’re just figuring out how to vibe with you. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll finally understand that “it’s giving slay.”
Stay strong, stay sassy. You got this, girl!