Society has always changed from generation to generation, sometimes for the better and other times for the worse. But what about in recent times? In this article, we look at some Boomer traits Gen Z is saying no to.
Preference for Face-to-Face Communication
Baby Boomers often prefer face-to-face communication, believing it strengthens relationships and conveys emotions more effectively. They value personal interaction so much that many of them have yet to embrace digital communication. Unfortunately, digital means of communication are here to stay, so Gen Z is not on the same wave.
Loyalty to Employers
Many Baby Boomers had strong loyalty to their employers, often staying with the same company for decades. They tend to be less likely to job-hop, and prefer to commit to one employer for most of their lives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Boomers stayed with an employer for an average of ten years.
Respect for Authority
Baby Boomers tend to respect authority and hierarchy, showing reverence to those in higher positions. They have a higher regard for titles and positions and usually never question authority. For many of them, their belief that they may one day hold these positions is the root of their respect.
Traditional Media Consumption
Unlike Gen Z, Baby Boomers often stick to traditional media, trusting newspapers and television for their news. Gen Z, on the other hand, gets most of its news from social media sites such as Instagram and Twitter. Televisual reported that time spent on TV declined by three hours in 2021.
Emphasis on Savings
Once upon a time, many believed that you could save your way to financial freedom. Baby Boomers are particularly known for their love of saving, often being more conservative with their finances than younger generations. Most of them still hold on to these beliefs, even after a change in the economy.
Manual Processes and DIY Attitude
The DIY attitude is strong among Baby Boomers, who often prefer manual processes over relying on technology. Many learned to do easy tasks like changing light bulbs, changing tires, and fixing pipes on their own. Gen Z, on the other hand, would rather pay someone.
Valuing Privacy
Boomers place a high value on privacy, often being more reserved about what they share online. Having grown up without social media, most are not active on social media and have major concerns about digital privacy.
Formal Dress Code
For Baby Boomers, dressing formally for work and special occasions is a sign of respect and professionalism. Gen Z, however, is opting for more relaxed ways of dressing. Many are doing away with formal attire like ties, long dresses, dress shoes, and suits.
Writing and Penmanship
Good penmanship and handwritten notes are cherished by Baby Boomers, reflecting a personal touch lost in digital communication. Unlike Gen Z, who were born in the digital age, Boomers needed to learn how to write, as it was an essential life skill when they were coming of age.
Patience and Delayed Gratification
Baby Boomers are often praised for their patience and ability to delay gratification, unlike the instant gratification sought by younger generations. Many believe Boomers were more willing to wait for rewards, which is not the case for Gen Z, who want results right away.
Home Ownership Pride
Owning a home is a significant milestone for Baby Boomers, symbolizing success and a stable foundation for the family. They see having their own house as a sign of doing well and having a stable life. They don’t just buy homes; they take care of them for years as they live in them. But Millennials are having to wait longer to buy homes now: according to CBS News, “the typical age to buy a first home has jumped to 36 years old, the oldest ever on record.”
Conventional Education Values
Baby Boomers really believe in the traditional way of learning. For them, going to school, attending classes, and earning a degree the old-fashioned way shows hard work and dedication, and is the key to success.
Reliance on Physical Maps and Printed Directions
Unlike Gen Z’s reliance on GPS, Baby Boomers often prefer using physical maps and printed directions for navigation. While physical maps are slowly dying out, many Boomers still choose them over modern GPS solutions.
Appreciation for Analog Technology
Baby Boomers often praise the quality and nostalgia associated with analog items like vinyl records and film cameras. Interestingly, some Gen Zers are also loving these technologies, but they will never be as popular as they once were.
Formal Dining and Entertaining
Baby Boomers love hosting fancy dinner parties. They put a lot of effort into setting the table nicely and enjoy making the food from scratch. For them, dinner parties are more than just eating together; they’re a special way to show care and keep traditions alive.
Commitment to Civic and Community Engagement
Baby Boomers are notably involved with community projects, believing in the importance of contributing to society. This generation thinks that being involved and doing volunteer work is a key part of being a good citizen. They often volunteer and take part in activities that make their towns or cities better.
Respect for Physical Books and Libraries
Unlike younger people who read online, Baby Boomers have a love for real books and going to the library. They enjoy holding a book in their hands and turning the pages. WKBN reports that book sales went down by almost 60 million in 2022 compared to the previous year.
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