Berufsjugendlich is a fascinating compound word that literally translates to "professionally youthful." It's not a common everyday word, making it quite unique and memorable.
In the context of Nena's song, she uses it to describe herself and challenge societal expectations about aging. She's being criticized for acting "too young" for her age, and she sarcastically embraces the idea of being "professionally youthful," implying that staying young at heart is her job or way of life, despite what others might think.
Have you ever been told to "act your age"? In this song, German artist Nena pushes back against people who criticize her for being too energetic and happy. The lyrics describe how people tell her to stop being so "berufsjugendlich," a fun German word that means something like "professionally youthful." They say she should be more serious now that she's older and even a grandmother, complaining that her good mood "gets on their nerves."
Instead of changing, Nena questions these expectations with a bit of sarcasm. Does she have to start using a cane, stop telling jokes, or never go dancing again? She rejects these ideas completely. She declares that she hasn't just "stayed young," but that making music is what truly defines her. The song is a powerful and fun anthem about ignoring critics, celebrating your true self, and never letting age dictate how you should live your life.