The mid-20th century was full of unique traditions and trends that the Boomer generation loved, shaping fashion and lifestyles for years to come. However, while many of these trends have had a lasting influence, some haven’t stood the test of time. Here are 18 things from the baby boomer era that we’d be happy to see fade away.
Stigmatization of Mental Health Issues
As Springer Nature’s BMC shares, good mental health is associated with happiness and fulfillment in life, perhaps unsurprisingly so. This is why creating safe spaces for open conversations about mental well-being is so important, something that Boomers never did. Normalizing seeking help for mental health issues also helps destigmatize mental illness, so we’re all for it.
Inflexible Work Hours
A lot of jobs in the past had fixed schedules and working hours. Individuals had to be at the workplace every working day. Changing to more remote work has become common, especially after the pandemic. Digital advancements have allowed people to work even in different countries, promoting a better work-life balance.
Smoking
People were allowed to smoke in many indoor public spaces, such as restaurants, bars, and offices, in the boomer generation. Research shows that passive smoking creates a high risk for disease. Thankfully, strict laws are now in place to minimize exposure to secondhand smoke for all individuals.
Formal Business Attire Every Day
Dressing formally to work was a tradition in the boomer days. Workplaces had a dress code, including suits and ties for men and business suits or formal dresses for women. As workplaces evolve, there is more freedom of expression. Workplace attire is now more casual and comfortable.
Outdated Gender Roles and Stereotypes
The notion that men and women have particular roles in society promotes inequality. Women were expected to be homemakers, and men were the primary breadwinners. Family roles are evolving toward more inclusivity. Men can take care of the home as well, and women can pursue their careers.
Limited Representation and Diversity in Media
It has been reported that until the ‘70s, most shows had mainly Caucasian casts. There was minimal diversity. Black and Brown people were rarely represented. The media portrayal of minorities was mainly in domestic assistance roles or as minor characters.
Print Newspapers and Magazines
The use of newspapers and print magazines contributes to environmental degradation. Newspapers pile up and greatly contribute to landfill waste. Instead, digital media is a more environmentally friendly option. It also increases consumption worldwide, and there is an easier and faster spread of the news.
Dial-Up Internet Connections
Internet connections have become easier and faster with the use of broadband. Dial-up internet connections had slow internet speeds. Internet speed and connection have become a big part of daily life. With remote work, social media usage, and streaming, a good internet connection is necessary.
Landline Telephones
Landline phones were in every home in the boomer generation. They were the primary form of communication. This caused limitations due to their corded forms. The introduction of mobile phones has improved communication. They are multipurpose, and you can use them anywhere.
Lack of Environmental Consciousness
Climate change has been reported to greatly impact health, according to WHO. This has led to more vigorous measures to increase awareness and protect the environment. Adopting eco-friendly practices can help combat pollution. This applies to all aspects of our lives, such as the use of plastic materials.
Homophobia and Discrimination Against LGBTQ+ Individuals
There was a lot of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community in the mid-20th century. They were not allowed to marry and sometimes faced physical violence. Celebrating love and identity in all its forms should always be the standard.
Limited Options for Vegetarians and Vegans
Many individuals today are on specialized diets. This choice is either made as a change in lifestyle, for health reasons, or because of cultural and religious beliefs. Vegans and vegetarians have many food choices now. There are options on restaurant menus and many companies make products that are specific to their dietary restrictions.
Lack of Inclusivity for the Disabled
People with disabilities require a lot of assistance in public spaces. Many old buildings did not include infrastructure for the disabled. This has been improved. Many public spaces are built with accessibility features for people with disabilities, including disabled parking, ramps, and audio cues.
Measures of Success
Boomers viewed success as owning lots of material possessions. You were considered successful if you owned a nice, big house and bought expensive cars. This is shifting as people become more focused on individual fulfillment. Success is based on your goals and the impact you’ve had on society.
Taboos Around Discussing Sex
Sex education is a vital part of reproductive health. Today, communities are encouraged to be more open to topics concerning sex. Children are given sex education in schools, churches, and other places. It is also promoted in media and entertainment to destigmatize it.
Limited Understanding and Acceptance of Diverse Family Structures
The older generations viewed people from single-parent households or blended families as non-traditional. They were regarded as broken. Many communities are now supportive and embrace diverse family structures. All children can be raised with love, even when their parents are not together.
Encyclopedias
In the past, encyclopedias were like treasure troves of knowledge. With the widespread use of the internet, getting information has become faster than flipping through pages. Websites like Wikipedia give us the latest facts whenever we need them. There’s no need for bulky books or the constant purchase of updated versions.
Tube TVs
Flat-screen TVs have taken over the entertainment field with their clearer pictures and sleek designs. No more squinting at fuzzy screens in the middle of the night—high-definition TVs have vibrant colors and sharp images. They also fit well with modern home décor and can be installed in a variety of ways.