You might notice that older generations, especially boomers, hold onto habits that younger adults find unnecessary. These habits were shaped during an era of rotary phones, paper maps, and handwritten notes.
These routines feel like second nature for boomers, while younger folks often see them as quirky or outdated. This post discusses some of those habits and why they often don’t translate across generations.
Holding Onto Items “Just in Case”
Boomers are often reluctant to throw things out, even when they haven’t used them in years. Drawers full of takeout menus, expired coupons, and old electronics are common in their homes. They were raised to avoid waste, and saving items meant being prepared. That mindset developed during times when replacements weren’t always accessible or affordable.
Younger adults tend to value space over stuff. They’ve embraced minimalism, choosing to keep only what they use regularly. If something breaks or wears out, it’s replaced or upgraded rather than stored away. The idea of saving dozens of plastic containers or manuals for long-gone appliances doesn’t mean much to them.
Paying Bills with Paper Checks
Many boomers still write checks to pay their bills. They’re used to mailing off payments for utilities, rent, or subscriptions. Physically writing and recording a check offers a sense of control and order. It reflects a time when banking was primarily done in person or through mail.
For younger adults, this habit feels inefficient. They’ve grown up with auto-pay, mobile banking, and online portals. Checks are slower, and tracking spending is done through apps that update in real time. Waiting days for a check to clear is a hassle they’ve never had to deal with.
Watching TV Based on a Schedule
Boomers are used to tuning in at a specific time for their favorite TV shows. Prime-time programming was part of a routine, and missing a show often meant waiting for a rerun. Watching live news or weather updates also added to the structure of their day. It gave a rhythm to evenings that younger adults rarely follow now.
Today, streaming platforms rule. Watching shows happens on your own time, not based on a network’s schedule. You can pause, rewind, and skip content at will. Sitting through ads or waiting a week for a new episode feels outdated for younger viewers.
Sticking with the Same Brands for Decades
Boomers tend to stay loyal to certain brands. They trust familiar names for groceries, appliances, or clothing because those companies have delivered consistent results over the years. There’s comfort in sticking with what works, and switching brands often doesn’t feel worth the risk.
Younger shoppers are constantly exploring. With endless online reviews and influencer recommendations, they’re more likely to try new products. Loyalty is earned through quality, ethics, and innovation, not just familiarity. A newer brand that aligns with their values can easily win them over.
Printing Photos and Using Photo Albums
Boomers often print their photos and organize them in albums. These collections are treasured, filled with snapshots of family gatherings, holidays, and milestones. There’s something sentimental about flipping through pages and holding the memories in your hands.
Younger generations store their memories digitally. They share photos on social media, save them in the cloud, and create digital albums. Printing photos feels like an extra step, and physical albums take up space. Nostalgia has gone virtual for them.
Using Landline Phones
For many boomers, the home phone is still essential. They keep it plugged in and often give out that number first. It represents consistency and was once the only communication line for personal and emergency use.
Younger adults use their mobile phones exclusively. Landlines feel unnecessary, especially when most services and contacts are linked to smartphones. Carrying one device that handles calls, texts, emails, and more makes the idea of a separate home phone seem outdated.
Balancing a Checkbook
Boomers often learned to balance a checkbook as a standard part of financial management. Recording every transaction and reconciling statements was a routine way to stay on top of money matters. It’s a habit built around accountability and accuracy.
That habit has disappeared mainly among younger adults. They monitor spending through bank apps, receive instant alerts, and track real-time balances. Manually logging transactions feels like busywork. Digital tools have replaced the pen-and-paper method entirely.
Sending Holiday or Birthday Cards Through the Mail
Boomers enjoy sending and receiving physical cards for holidays and birthdays. It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows effort and planning. For them, a handwritten card carries personal meaning and reflects a deeper level of care.
Younger adults often celebrate with texts, social media messages, or digital e-cards. They prefer speed and ease, and the gesture still feels meaningful even if it’s not on paper. While they appreciate the tradition, they rarely participate in it themselves.
Dressing More Formally for Casual Occasions
Boomers tend to dress up more than younger generations for everyday events. A trip to the grocery store or a dinner at a casual restaurant might involve slacks, a button-up shirt, or makeup and accessories. Presentation was tied to respect and self-worth.
Comfort and self-expression drive style choices today. Younger adults wear athleisure, hoodies, or sneakers in most settings without a second thought. Dressing down doesn’t reflect a lack of care; it’s just a different norm.
Writing Everything Down in Notebooks or Planners
Many boomers prefer keeping physical planners, to-do lists, or address books. Writing things down makes them easier to remember, and flipping through pages is part of staying organized. It’s a habit rooted in reliability.
Younger adults rely on digital calendars, reminders, and productivity apps. Everything syncs across devices, making access fast and simple. Paper can feel like a burden, especially if misplaced or forgotten.
Reading Print Newspapers or Magazines
Boomers are more likely to sit down with a printed newspaper or magazine in the morning. The routine brings a sense of order and familiarity. They trust the source and enjoy the slower pace of reading.
Younger adults skim headlines on their phones or listen to news podcasts during their commutes. They consume information in smaller, faster bursts and prioritize speed and variety over tradition.
Viewing Homeownership as the Ultimate Goal
Boomers often saw buying a house as the biggest milestone. It meant stability, success, and was a central part of the American Dream. Sacrifices were made to achieve that one goal.
Younger adults may rent longer, move more often, or invest in experiences instead. With housing prices rising and lifestyles changing, homeownership isn’t always the end goal. Freedom and flexibility matter more than putting down permanent roots.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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