Why Gen X Cringes at the Word “Wellbeing” and Why It Still Matters.

“Wellbeing? Sounds fluffy.”If you’re Gen X, chances are you’ve heard the word “wellbeing” and instinctively rolled your eyes. You’re not alone.

Raised in an era where independence, resilience, and “just getting on with it” were survival tools, Gen X grew up without the language or support for emotional or mental health. No one asked how you were feeling, they asked if you’d finished your homework, found a job, or paid the bills. The term “wellbeing” feels vague, corporate, or like something tacked onto a staff meeting with fruit platters and a mindfulness app.

But the truth is, wellbeing isn’t fluff. It’s survival - just with better tools. At its core, wellbeing means living in a way that supports your mental, emotional, and physical health so you’re not constantly running on empty.

It’s about: • Feeling balanced (not perfect) • Having energy to get through the day (without burning out) • Managing stress in healthy ways (not just powering through) • Maintaining connection, purpose, and mental clarity

For Gen X, reframing wellbeing as sustainable living rather than self-indulgence can make all the difference. It’s not about bubble baths (unless that’s your thing). It’s about not ignoring yourself until your body, mind, or relationships break down.

Let’s normalise practical wellbeing for the generation that was taught to tough it out. You’re allowed to care for yourself and it doesn’t mean you are weak!

#GenX #MentalHealth #WellbeingIsNotFluffy #Psychology #BurnoutRecovery #Resilience #MentalFitness #It’sOkayToFeel