16 Cherished Boomer Traditions That Society Loves to Mock Now
The phrase “Okay, boomer” became popular as a way for young adults to make fun of outdated perspectives or manners. It is often aimed at the older generation.
Boomers grew up in a less modern world and often have the tendency to prefer traditional methods over new innovations. After the pandemic, many boomers feel more confident using technology. Despite this, some still choose to stick to traditional ways, either out of nostalgia or familiarity.
Let’s talk about some behaviors and opinions boomers hold on to, even though people call them out for being old-fashioned.
1. Following Gender-Based Roles
Boomers often stick to traditional gender-based roles. They grew up in a time when men and women had clearly defined roles in society.
Adapting to change can be difficult, and the rapid shifts in the modern world can be overwhelming for boomers. With more women becoming breadwinners and men taking on homemaking roles, these changes can feel confusing for them.
2. Using Paper Maps While Traveling
When traveling to new places (whether for business or leisure), boomers use reliable paper maps to reach their destinations. However, they don’t realize that using paper maps can be impractical, especially if their smartphones are equipped with GPS.
Although some of us mock them for using paper maps instead of a navigation app, a USA Today report reveals a different perspective: With a map, you never have to worry about running out of battery or becoming unresponsive because of a weak signal.
3. Promoting Corporate Loyalty
Boomers have the most faith in their companies and are considered the most loyal generation in the workforce. They take pride in their corporate loyalty and are more engaged in their jobs. That makes sense, as they come from a time when long-term employment was often rewarded with job security and additional benefits.
However, for most of the current workforce, corporate loyalty is not a priority. They prefer to move on from companies that don’t meet their needs or contribute to their growth. This shift doesn’t only come from generational differences, they also come from a changing job market and corporate culture.
4. Consumerism
Consumerism focuses on the power of purchasing goods and services. In the post-World War II era, when baby boomers grew up, many saw consumerism as a reward for hard work. While a lot of boomers support consumerism as a part of upholding traditional American values, it’s not supported by the entire generation.
Today, new generations cringe at the idea of consumerism and believe that this materialistic way of thinking is shallow. Younger generations are socially engaged and believe consumerism doesn’t fit modern society.
5. Negative Attitude Towards Mental Health
Boomers grew up in a traditional society where talking about mental health was considered taboo. They often prefer to keep personal issues private, believing they’re capable of helping themselves.
Today, people aim to reduce and eventually remove this stigma. With a more open attitude toward mental health, talking to a therapist is now widely recommended and accepted.
6. Wears Formal Attire at the Office
Does your office attire affect your professionalism? Boomers believe it does, and dressing smartly shows you take your job seriously.
Today’s working styles have changed, and formal attire is less of a concern. Many see formal dress codes as restrictive and over-the-top. This contrast in office fashion is clear between executives like Bill Gates and younger counterparts like Mark Zuckerberg.
7. Sticks to the Analog World
Baby boomers grew up in an analog world and got used to doing everything by hand. They wrote and posted letters and important documents.
Today, many things are done digitally. Letters and documents are sent through emails or through digital messaging apps like WhatsApp. While hand-written letters and calls feel personal, convenience reigns supreme in the modern world.
8. Seeing Material Wealth as a Symbol of Success
Boomers and younger generations have different views on what it means to be successful. A Birmingham University study found that viewing wealth and possessions as a sign of success leads to life satisfaction. As opposed to using them to measure happiness.
Younger generations find this concept materialistic and believe self-fulfillment and experiences are key to life satisfaction. While boomers see possessions as a sign of achievement, younger folks focus more on experiences and personal growth.
9. Using Encyclopedias for Research
Encyclopedias seem as old as dinosaurs to today’s younger generation. These books cover a wide range of topics and often come in a set with subjects arranged alphabetically.
Boomers love encyclopedias and likely have their own sets. Nowadays, with Google and other search engines, people simply type the topic they want to know about and get detailed information within seconds.
10. Believes in Age Hierarchy
Age is important to the older generation. In traditional society, older people are expected to be respected, have their needs met, and have their well-being supported. Boomers follow this age hierarchy and see age as a marker for authority and experience.
However, the idea that wisdom comes with age doesn’t necessarily apply to the youth. Today, respect is earned based on merit and achievements, and you have to deserve it to get it.
11. Using Checks for Payment
When was the last time you saw someone write checks at the checkout counter? There’s a certain charm to pulling out your checkbook and signing with a pen, but it’s an outdated practice now.
Today, many people prefer paying with cards or phones using apps, especially if they don’t bring cash in their wallets. App-based payments are popular because they are convenient and offer instant transfers.
12. Using Landline Phones for Communication
Landline phones once reigned supreme in households and offices all around the world. Boomers are familiar with using them for communication.
With the rise of mobile devices, from flip phones to smartphones, landlines have become outdated. Only around 27% of adults in the U.S. use landlines today. While there’s nothing wrong with using them, communication can be limited since landlines are now rare.
13. Using Fax Machines at Work
Fax machines send and receive documents electronically using phone lines. They became popular with employees who needed to collaborate from different locations.
While fax machines worked well in their time, today’s generation relies on computers and internet connections. Some boomers struggle to accept this change because they are more familiar with fax machines.
14. Integrating Throw Pillows in Interior Design
Do your parents believe adding throw pillows is the best way to style any space? This trend is somewhat associated with older generations, as new generations more often prefer a minimalist style.
Throw pillows can look cozy but can also make a space look cluttered. Just adding throw pillows isn’t enough for good interior design. For many, skipping the pillows can create a cleaner look that they prefer.
15. Using the Phone Book for Contact Information
Do you know what the Yellow Pages are? These are the old phone books that baby boomers are more familiar with. You can search for contact information in the thick book, especially if you’re checking out a business you want to visit.
Contact information is more secure today, especially if you’re not a business owner. Phones store contact details in their memory, so it’s easier and faster to make calls without typing numbers each time.
16. Watching Movies on CDs, DVDs, and VHS Tapes
Many baby boomers and older generations are used to watching movies on CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes. They choose a movie from their collection and put it in the player. There are still many who’ve built their collection and enjoy watching them from time to time.
Today, we have streaming services like HBO and Netflix, offering many movies and TV shows. Streaming is the most popular way to watch video content in the United States. However, you have to pay a monthly subscription fee, which is different from the one-time fee that you pay for more traditional media.
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