Every generation has its unique traits and habits, but baby boomers, in particular, hold on to many practices from their formative years. Unfortunately, not all of these behaviors are welcome in the eyes of younger generations. So, here are 16 habits that baby boomers continue to exhibit despite some people thinking they really need to stop.
Resisting Modern Technology
As mentioned by Obada Hattab via LinkedIn, “Baby boomers may feel uncomfortable with new technologies or social norms that challenge their worldview and way of life.” The fear of modern technology can be overwhelming, and boomers tend to worry about how time-consuming it may be to learn how to use these technologies.
Avoiding Social Media
The lack of use of social media by baby boomers can make them miss out on special moments shared by family and friends. They don’t see social media as a necessity of everyday life, and their concerns about privacy are the reason they don’t use it.
Clinging to Traditional TV
According to Mediaculture, “Even with the rapid expansion of digital media, the Baby Boomer generation is dedicated to traditional television.” They much prefer to opt for their satellite TV, with their traditional programs coming on at a specific time, over other options such as streaming services.
Printing Photos in the Digital Age
Baby boomers still love their traditional methods when it comes to photography. They much prefer to print out their photos and share them with friends and family members in a physical album rather than sharing them online. Printed photos give them something tangible to remember the memories they created.
Navigating with Paper Maps
They might be difficult to fold, but baby boomers much prefer to use a paper map over a GPS. They don’t trust the digital technology of GPS, as it could lead them down the wrong street or cause them to lose their signal en route. A paper map is something they can trust and provides excitement when planning out the route, but ultimately, it’s just not as effective.
Sticking to 9-to-5 Workdays
With the constant evolution of technology, the working day has started to evolve and looks different for many people now. Options such as working from home and being a digital nomad are very popular for many, but not boomers. They much prefer the traditional 9-to-5 workdays that provide a routine for their lifestyle.
Dining at Chain Restaurants
When it comes to eating out, baby boomers tend to keep it simple. They much prefer to eat at a chain restaurant over local dining. After all, by picking a chain restaurant, they know that no matter what city they visit, there will be food they like and are used to.
Overusing Email for Communication
Forbes reports that baby boomers prefer communication methods such as email, face-to-face, or even voicemail. Baby boomers seem to be reluctant to use instant messaging, despite it being much quicker and more efficient. They’ll still choose to email someone, as they are comfortable understanding the tone and formality of an email.
Keeping Physical Address Books
Baby boomers much prefer to write contact information in phone books over typing it in on a digital one. They view them as much more reliable than digital versions, and sticking to their traditional method assures them that they won’t lose any important contact numbers.
Holding onto Traditional Gender Roles
The concept of gender roles has significantly improved over recent years, and younger generations can now be confident enough to pursue a job or career regardless of their gender. However, some boomers still think certain jobs should be carried out only by a particular gender. These views can have a negative impact on professional relationships.
Physical Calendars
Baby boomers still love to use a physical calendar. Despite having access to digital calendars that can be used on your phone, boomers prefer the traditional wall calendar. Sticking to physical calendars makes planning harder and less efficient, and boomers miss out on crucial benefits of a digital calendar, such as reminders.
Traditional Clothing Brands
Baby boomers aren’t seen as a generation that follows new fashion trends. They much prefer to stick to what they know, especially when it comes to brands. They tend to buy from a particular brand they’ve known for years. This can stop them from truly expressing themselves in the newer fashion that’s available.
Using Conventional Cleaning Products
Baby boomers can be creatures of habit. They like to stick to what they know and trust, and that’s the same when it comes to cleaning products. They will purchase the same cleaning products they’ve had for years instead of trying newer products that are more eco-friendly for the environment.
Job Loyalty
Professionally, baby boomers are very loyal. They work hard and tend to stick with one employer throughout their careers. Unfortunately, this can be detrimental to themselves if they aren’t rewarded correctly for the work they do. They view job hopping as a negative and, therefore, something they don’t wish to do, even if it could further their career.
Preferring Old-School Entertainment
Baby boomers much prefer traditional entertainment methods, such as going to the cinema or watching a live performance, over newer entertainment methods. The idea of streaming a movie on a subscription service or watching a clip on YouTube isn’t something they feel would be entertaining.
Favoring Cash Over Digital Payments
Baby boomers have always lived in a society where cash was used. AARP reports that “70 percent of boomers and those in the 72-and-older age group still use paper currency or coins to pay for items that cost $5 or less.” They view digital payments as having security and privacy risks attached to them.