Some advice, like many things in life, expires as time continues to march on. Baby Boomers were raised with very particular ideas and behaviours that shaped their world. Some of them felt right at that time but are really hilarious today. They are a mirror of an entirely different world.
In this list, we’re going to explore 15 tips Boomers gave that don’t exactly function well in reality today. It will be funny to see how much things have changed over the years and why these pieces of advice are no longer relevant in the new age.
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Always Have a Dime for a Pay Phone
Back in the day, having a dime handy for a payphone was a must. Nowadays, payphones are rare to find. The thought of having to carry change around for a payphone is pretty amusing these days, when we all have smartphones in our pockets. We can now anyone, anywhere in the world without needing any coins.
Don’t Sit Too Close to the TV, or Your Eyes Will Cross Permanently
Boomers warned us not to sit too close to the television. They thought it would make us go blind. It’s common knowledge today that excessive screen time is not good. Although it harms our eyes, it doesn’t damage the eye permanently. We now have much bigger screens and better tech to watch the same shows without being terrified.
Stick With One Employer Your Whole Career
A large percentage of Boomers worked at one job their entire life. They thought it was important to remain loyal to an employer. This is another way in which the world has changed so much — in this day and age, many people switch jobs every few years. Young people often change jobs looking for better income or chances to improve their skills.
You’re Not Always Going To Have a Calculator
Boomers often said you should learn math because calculators wouldn’t always be available. Nowadays, we have calculators on our phones and computers. This means that most people are actually carrying calculators in their pockets. Many new generation kids use technology today instead of memorizing math formulas.
Stop Filling Out Those Online Applications
Manually filling out applications used to be a long process. When younger people tried to switch to online applications, Boomers thought that online applications would not help them to get jobs. But today, most companies like digital applications since they are easier to deal with as compared to paper resumes. They also make job searching faster and easier.
Just Get a Master’s Degree
For some Boomers, getting a master’s degree was a sure way to get a job. Although education is important, today’s job market is more complex. A degree alone doesn’t always lead to success. Employers often value experience, skills, and networking just as much. There are also alternative paths like trade schools and online courses.
Never Get a Credit Card or Take a Loan
Another warning of Boomers was never to take loans or have credit cards. They were scared of possible debt or other finance issues. In the modern world, people use credit cards wisely to build credit, which helps to buy major things like houses or cars. So, despite its risks, credit cards also improve the financial health.
Keep All Your Spare Change in Your Car for Gas Money
People in the past kept coins in the car to buy gas or in urgent situations (like buying gas). But today most people do not use cash anymore. Everything is done with cards or through a phone. It’s more common to have a full tank and a card ready for purchases.
Don’t Take a Vacation if You Want To Get Promoted
Boomers often believed that by taking vacations, you reduce the chances of promotion. They thought dedication meant skipping vacations. Nowadays, most people value work-life balance more. People believe that taking a vacation can help you recharge. In fact, companies now encourage employees to take breaks.
Call at Night When Phone Rates Go Down
Boomers often reminded each other to call during off-hours to avoid overpayments. For example, they would wait until nighttime to make long-distance calls. Now, most people have unlimited calling plans. Nowadays, most plans have an unlimited call duration. So this tip seems so strange and outdated.
Learn To Read a Map
Boomers insisted that being able to read a map was a life skill. They thought that getting lost was a general problem. Nowadays, thanks to GPS and all manner of smartphone-based navigation applications, finding directions is very easy. Many people depend on technology to lead them.
Dress for the Job You Want
Another common Boomer tip was to dress up to show ambition. Boomers believed that appearance was key to career success. Although first impressions still matter as before, many workplaces have a more casual work environment. Now, how you perform matters more than what you wear.
Renting Is for Suckers
Renting was often a sign of failure to boomers. Homeownership was their ultimate goal. Today, a lot of people also prefer to rent due to its flexibility and freedom. The housing market can also be unpredictable, and makes it difficult to buy homes as you like.
Protect Your Credit Card Imprints
In the past, Boomers were careful about credit card imprints. They worried about fraud and identity theft. Technological advancement today gives more security. Card users feel safer now with chip cards and secure payment apps.
Playing Video Games Will Rot Your Brain
Video games were often said to damage the brain. Boomers worried playing games would make them lazy and unhealthy. Today, video games are a popular form of entertainment. In fact, several studies suggest that gaming can improve problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. It also helps to connect with friends and learn how to work as a team.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.