Millennials have carved out a lifestyle that often leaves their parents bewildered. From prioritizing self-care to choosing experiences over traditional investments, their habits reflect shifting societal norms and economic realities. Here are ten ways millennials live their lives that make their parents shake their heads.
1. Embracing Small Luxuries
Millennials believe in treating themselves, whether it’s an oat milk latte, an upscale brunch, or a private pilates session. While Boomers may see this as excessive spending, millennials view these indulgences as a way to bring joy to their daily lives. With homeownership increasingly out of reach—median home prices in 2024 exceed $433,500—millennials choose to enjoy the present instead of chasing an unattainable financial milestone.
2. The Side Hustle Mentality
Gone are the days of lifelong loyalty to a single employer. Millennials thrive in the gig economy, monetizing their hobbies and pursuing multiple income streams. This hustle culture is a necessity, not just a trend, as wages struggle to keep up with inflation. While their parents may find this career juggling exhausting, millennials see it as financial survival and freedom.
3. Spending on Experiences Over Savings
Millennials prioritize experiences over material possessions. Travel, concerts, and dining out take precedence over building a traditional savings account. While their parents may urge them to invest in a home or retirement fund, millennials argue that, with financial security harder to achieve, they’d rather collect memories than missed opportunities.
4. Minimalist Home Aesthetics
The millennial home is a sanctuary of neutral tones, minimalist design, and an abundance of indoor plants. Unlike their parents, who embraced bold wallpapers and ornate furniture, millennials favor sleek, simple decor that reflects a desire for calm amidst the chaos of modern life. “Millennial gray” may be mocked, but it’s a practical and timeless choice.
5. Photographing Every Meal
Parents might sigh in frustration as their millennial children snap pictures of every dish before taking a bite. But for millennials, food photography is about sharing experiences, appreciating craftsmanship, and curating a digital scrapbook. Social media platforms have transformed the way they engage with food, making each meal a potential post-worthy moment.
6. Delaying Marriage
Unlike previous generations, millennials are putting off marriage until later in life. In 2019, only 44% of millennials were married, compared to 61% of Boomers at the same age. Economic uncertainty and crippling student loan debt—39.9% of borrowers are millennials—have led many to postpone marriage in favor of financial stability.
7. Prioritizing Wellness
From yoga and meditation to organic diets and self-care routines, millennials take their health seriously. They invest in therapy, practice mindfulness, and explore holistic wellness. While their parents may see these habits as indulgent, millennials recognize the importance of mental and physical well-being in an increasingly stressful world.
8. Treating Pets Like Family
For many millennials, pets are more than just animals—they’re family. Fur babies receive birthday parties, organic meals, and personalized accessories. While their parents may not understand the devotion, millennials see their pets as cherished companions who deserve the best care possible.
9. Choosing Passion Over Paychecks
Unlike previous generations, millennials seek purpose-driven careers. Many prioritize jobs that align with their values, even if it means taking a lower salary. According to the Deloitte Global 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, 89% of millennials believe having a sense of purpose is crucial to job satisfaction. Their parents may roll their eyes, but for millennials, fulfillment is just as important as financial success.
10. Taking Mental Health Days
Millennials prioritize their mental well-being, even if it means taking a day off work to recharge. While older generations may view this as an unnecessary luxury, millennials understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. By normalizing mental health care, they are actively reducing stigma and fostering a healthier work-life balance.
Millennials are redefining traditional life paths, often to the exasperation of their parents. But behind these eye-roll-worthy habits lies a generation adapting to economic and societal shifts, finding joy in the present, and advocating for well-being in a rapidly changing world.
