7 outdated habits boomers swear by (that younger generations actively avoid)

There’s a generational gap between boomers and the younger crowd, and it’s not just about technology or pop culture.

Boomers often hold onto certain habits they swear by, convinced they are the secret to success. Meanwhile, younger generations look at these habits and can’t help but shake their heads.

These habits—some quirky, some serious—might have been effective back in the day. But times have changed and so has the business landscape. In this fast-paced digital world, there are some boomer habits that younger generations actively steer clear of.

Let’s dive into these seven outdated habits boomers swear by (that millennials and gen Z are happy to avoid). Maybe we’ll find a middle ground, or perhaps we’ll understand why some habits are better left in the past.

1) Paying with paper

Boomers often swear by the old-school method of paying with a good ol’ check. It’s a habit that has stood the test of time, with many believing it helps them keep better track of their spending.

However, the younger generations, especially millennials and gen Z, actively avoid this method like the plague.

In an increasingly digital world, they favor cashless transactions, be it card payments or mobile wallets.

These digital payment methods not only save time at the checkout line but also offer added layers of security.

Plus, with various apps and online banking, tracking expenditure is just as easy, if not easier.

While boomers might see checks as a safer option, younger generations view them as an unnecessary hassle slowing down their fast-paced lives.

As we move towards a more digital world, this habit of paying with paper is fading into the past.

2) Landline love

Here’s a personal example. My parents, staunch boomers, have an unwavering loyalty towards the landline telephone.

Even with their smartphones within arm’s reach, they always prefer making calls from their trusty old landline.

On the other hand, I can’t remember the last time I used a landline. With my smartphone always in my pocket, it just seems like an extra step to walk over to the landline to make a call.

Plus, with features like video calls and group chats, younger generations find mobile devices far more versatile and convenient.

It seems that for boomers, the landline represents a reliable constant in a rapidly evolving digital world.

But for us younger folks, it’s just another piece of outdated tech gathering dust.

3) Snail mail

Remember the last time you sent a physical letter? If you’re from a younger generation, chances are it’s been a while. Boomers, however, still see value in sending and receiving mail the old-fashioned way.

In contrast, millennials and gen Z tend to favor emails and instant messaging for their communication needs. Not only do these methods offer instant delivery, but they also save paper.

Here’s something to consider: The United States Postal Service processed and delivered 129.2 billion pieces of mail in 2020. With the rise of digital communication, this number has been steadily decreasing year after year.

While there’s something special about receiving a handwritten letter, it seems the convenience and speed of digital communication are winning out for younger generations.

4) Print media preference

Boomers grew up with newspapers and magazines being their primary source of news. Many still swear by the feel of crisp paper and the smell of fresh ink, insisting that it offers a reading experience digital screens can’t replicate.

Younger generations, on the other hand, get most of their news from digital sources. They prefer scrolling over flipping pages, favoring the immediacy and accessibility of online news platforms.

Moreover, digital media allows for interactive content and real-time updates, making it a more dynamic source of news.

As we continue to move towards a more digital world, the preference for print media is another habit that’s becoming increasingly outdated.

5) Banking in-person

Growing up, I remember accompanying my parents to our local bank branch. They would stand in long queues to deposit a check or make a withdrawal. It was a weekly routine they never skipped.

Fast forward to today, and I can’t imagine making time out of my schedule to visit a bank. Like many millennials and gen Z, I rely on online banking for all my financial needs.

Whether it’s paying bills, transferring money, or even depositing checks, it’s all done with a few taps on my smartphone.

While boomers might feel more secure dealing with their finances in-person, younger generations see the convenience and efficiency of digital banking as incomparable.

As we become more comfortable with technology, the habit of banking in-person seems increasingly archaic.

6) The paper trail

Boomers have a habit of keeping every piece of paper that might be of importance – bills, receipts, bank statements, you name it. They argue that it’s a foolproof way to keep track of finances and important transactions.

Meanwhile, younger generations lean towards digital versions of these documents. Most financial institutions and service providers offer e-statements and digital receipts, making it easier to store and search for these documents when needed.

This shift towards digital record-keeping not only reduces paper clutter but is also a step towards eco-friendly practices. As businesses continue to digitize, the habit of holding onto physical copies is one that’s losing ground.

7) Fear of technology

Boomers tend to approach technology with a hint of skepticism and fear. They often prefer sticking to what they know and understand, rather than exploring new tech.

Younger generations, however, have grown up surrounded by evolving technology. They see it as an integral part of their lives, helping them work smarter, stay connected, and simplify tasks.

Not embracing technology can limit growth and opportunities in this digital age. For younger generations, this fear of technology is one outdated habit they’re more than happy to avoid.

Generational evolution

In the grand scheme of societal evolution, the generational gap is a fascinating phenomenon. The habits and preferences of boomers are a reflection of the era they grew up in, just as the inclinations of millennials and gen Z mirror the digital age.

While it’s easy to label these boomer habits as outdated, it’s important to remember that they were once considered the norm. As society evolves, so do our habits and lifestyles, shaped by advancements in technology and shifts in societal norms.

From paying with paper to banking in-person, these habits are stepping stones on the path of progress. They serve as reminders of a time before smartphones and digital conveniences, offering a glimpse into a world that younger generations might struggle to imagine.

As we move forward, it’s intriguing to ponder which of our current habits future generations will consider outdated. It’s a thought that highlights the relentless march of time and the ceaseless evolution of human behavior.