"I'm just buying and wearing things I've liked for a long time, now that I can afford them, one said of his skate gear and Air Jordans. Why is this something to be attacked for? Another felt self-conscious in interactions with younger colleagues: I try to keep conversations focused on work or career concerns. Realising you're irrelevant stings the whole world over, but take heart, Young 40s. It gets better — soon you'll just be old."
"A decade on from my own young 40s, no one could accuse me of trying too hard. I don't know my Olivia Rodrigo from my Sabrina Carpenter, and I've stopped trying to keep up with jeans — they lost me at (honestly, way before) horseshoe. I'm at peace with not understanding fandom controversies or influencer gossip — I get enough drama from my own body, wondering if its newest weird development is just disgusting and embarrassing or might kill me."
The label "Young 40s" initially implied youthful energy but has become a mocking term for middle-aged people perceived as trying too hard to stay relevant. Some individuals report hurt and confusion when younger generations ridicule their continued interest in skate gear, Air Jordans, or career-focused conversation. The sting of perceived irrelevance is common across cultures. Many middle-aged people eventually shift priorities toward health, finances, caregiving, and low-key creative pursuits. Public figures from youth scenes age into quieter lives while remaining content. Acceptance of aging often replaces anxiety about appearing out of touch.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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