My boomer mom’s cheap online shopping habit drives me nuts

Dear Leslie, I understand the tension between your perspectives as a millennial and your mom's as a boomer. When she decorated her home and bought clothes through online retailers like Amazon and Wayfair, the thing she was most proud of was how cheap everything was. For me, cheap usually implies poor quality and disposability, not something to be proud of. I'm not sure whether to try to explain my perspective or just accept her viewpoint.

I appreciate your curiosity about this generational divide instead of just frustration. It's important to find ways to bridge the gap between generations, especially in the context of the broader climate movement. Boomers grew up during a time of economic instability, such as oil crises, layoffs, and high mortgage rates. Surviving on a limited budget was a real skill for them, often instilled by their parents who experienced the Great Depression and World War II.

This mindset of getting the most for the least has persisted over time, even as the sources of affordable bargains have changed.

Research shows that people of all generations recognize the seriousness of environmental problems and want to make changes, but the specific actions may differ. Older generations tend to vote more consistently, while younger people are more likely to participate in protests. If you want to share your sustainability values with your mom, look for common ground and build intergenerational solidarity.

Start by acknowledging her perspective and being empathetic. You could also ask her about the sustainable practices from her own upbringing that she learned from her mother. Sharing small, beneficial actions for the planet with each other could also help foster understanding and unity.