There’s a particular flavor of judgment that gets lobbed at my generation, “Ok Boomer.”
It’s the judgment that arrives just before the boomer label technically sticks. We’re told
we’re uncomfortable with technology, that we resist change, that we cling to what we
know. And sure, maybe we do adopt new tools a bit more deliberately than someone
who grew up swiping before they could walk. But uncomfortable? That’s not quite the
truth. It’s more honest to say we’re discerning. We’ve seen enough technological
revolutions to know the difference between a tool worth learning and a novelty that’ll be
obsolete next Tuesday. Blu-ray, anyone?
My husband’s great-grandfather had a chance to invest in cars back when they were
still a wild idea. The horse, he said, was all that was needed. Reliable. Proven. Familiar.
Today, that decision looks laughable from where we sit. But imagine standing in his
shoes—the automobile was a loud, unpredictable contraption that broke down
constantly, required a completely different skill set to operate, and threatened an entire
way of life built around horses. His hesitation wasn’t stupidity. It was the very human
tendency to protect what works before you’ve learned to work with something new.
I’m thinking about him because I’ve spent the last few months learning to use AI, and
it’s been both exciting and uncomfortable. The uncomfortable part isn’t because I’m
afraid of technology—I’m not. It’s because it required me to think differently about what I
do, to ask new questions, and to sit with uncertainty while I figured out what was
actually useful versus what was just flashy. That discomfort? That’s where the growth
and adventure really is.
Here’s what I know now: staying relevant in a world that won’t stop changing isn’t about
being a digital native. It’s about being willing to feel awkward. It’s about asking dumb
questions. It’s about recognizing that discomfort is just the signal that you’re learning
something that matters. So send your snarky “Ok Boomer” comments my way. I can
handle them!
And yes, I use AI now. And I’m still figuring it out.
Love,
Certified Professional Coach and Psychologist
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How often have you wished for that person in your life who listens deeply, doesn’t judge you, and doesn’t try to fix you? That person who holds space for you to talk through your struggles, your hopes, and dreams so that you can live the personal and professional life that you truly want? I’m that person. Yes, I’m a psychologist and a professional life and leadership coach but my superpower is listening, deep, empathic, compassionate listening. If you’ve been seeking a professional listener who will help you live the life you truly desire, let’s set up a time to talk. My email is Lisa@LisaKaplin.com