Ah, the Baby Boomers. They marched for peace, grooved to vinyl, and redefined workaholics. But times change, and some Boomer habits leave younger generations scratching their heads. From analog oddities to social etiquette quirks, here are 21 Boomer things that might seem strange to Gen Z and Millennials:
Phone Booth Nostalgia
Remember using a phone booth? For Boomers, it wasn’t just a prop in a period drama; it was the only way to make a private call on the go. No wonder they still struggle using cell phones.
Reliance Maps
Forget fancy GPS; boomers navigated journeys with physical maps, meticulously unfolding and refolding them like origami masters. Some Boomers even used a highlighter and a trusty Bic pen to mark their route.
Balancing a Checkbook
While younger generations swipe a card, Boomers are used to pulling out their checkbooks to pay for everything. Balancing their accounts to the penny was a badge of honor, and calculators were for emergencies only.
Landline Life
For Boomers, the landline was a social hub, a lifeline for gossip and pizza orders. Hanging up “the wrong way” could even spark family feuds. Gone are the days of landlines, as younger generations barely like to talk on their cell phones, much-preferring text messages.
Coupon Clipping
Coupons weren’t just digital codes for Boomers; they were sacred scraps of paper, meticulously clipped and organized in binders. Saving a few cents was an art form, and coupons brought much delight.
Early Dinners
Forget brunch culture; Boomers still hold sacred dinner, preferably at 5 PM sharp. Any later, you’re officially a rebel dining in “the twilight hours.”
Flashing Their Cash
Boomers prefer the tangible security of cash rather than the obscurity of credit cards. Handing over a wad of cash for a purchase keeps Boomers happy as they feel more in control of their money. Boomers will use credit cards, but if they do, they will likely pay off their monthly balance.
Letter Writing
Forget emojis and DMs; boomers communicate through handwritten letters. Birthday wishes, condolences, even grocery lists – everything deserves the flourish of pen and paper with not an email in sight.
Leaving Message on Answering Machines
Not enjoying texting as much as younger generations, Boomers are all about the chat. Boomers leave detailed messages on answering machines, complete with apologies for interrupting, and promise to call back “as soon as possible.”
Delving into a Phone Book
For Boomers, hefty phone books were essential directories, lovingly flipped through until fingers turned black with ink looking for Aunt Jean’s new phone number. While younger generations embrace digital technology such as the internet and Alexa, Boomers love the joy of a new phonebook dropping on their doorstep.
Mastering the Lawn
Mowing the lawn isn’t just a chore for Boomers; it’s a sacred ritual. Stripes must be even, edges razor-sharp, and the entire process completed with a satisfied nod and the temptation to show off to their neighbors.
Garage Sale Fever
Forget online shopping; Boomers scour garage sales like seasoned pirates, haggling for treasures and reveling in the thrill of a bargain. Every dusty lamp or chipped teacup puts a smile on the face of Boomers.
DIY Life
Boomers are the generation that is self-sufficient to the core, whipping out hammers and screwdrivers to fix anything from leaky faucets to broken hearts. While younger generations will call a trader to fix a leak, Boomers will revel in their chance to do some DIY.
Casseroles to Feed an Army
There is little chance of seeing takeouts in the homes of Boomers. Boomers casserole connoisseurs, conjuring up comfort food from scratch with ingredients like canned soup and mystery meat to warm the family up on a cold day.
Deadly Talk
As people age, they experience more loss, and remembering those who have passed away is a natural way to honor their memory and keep them alive in their hearts. Talking about a recently deceased person can be a way for older adults to connect, share stories and memories, and find comfort in mutual grieving.
Sugar Caution
Sweetness with everything? Not for Boomers! They savor unsweetened coffee and tea, often with just a single, carefully measured spoonful of sugar.
Hearty Handshakes
Forget virtual connections; Boomers value the firm handshake, a silent language of respect and trust. For those with a light grip, watch out for the force of a Boomer.
Tipping Traditions
Boomers believe in the tangible appreciation of tipping in cash rather than modern apps to say thank you to hospitality workers. Leaving a few dollars on the table is a sign of good service and a satisfied stomach.
The “Early Bird Gets the Worm” Mantra
Sleep in? Never! Boomers rise with the sun, ready to tackle the day. Early mornings are for exercise, errands, and maybe even catching the sunrise – while younger generations hit the snooze button.
The Newspaper Ritual
For many Boomers, reading the newspaper has been a daily ritual for decades. It’s ingrained in their routine, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort. Breaking this habit can be tricky, even with readily available digital news options.
Gossip Girls
Boomers often have well-established social circles built over decades. Spending time with friends and family often involves catching up on current events, sometimes leading to discussions about other people’s lives.
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