7 old style life guidelines boomers nonetheless swear by however youthful generations discover utterly outdated – VegOut

Every era carries its personal playbook for methods to “make it” in life.

For boomers, that playbook was formed by a world of landlines, job stability, and a a lot slower tempo of change.

Some of these guidelines nonetheless make sense immediately—however others? They really feel like relics from one other period.

Here are seven of the old-school life guidelines boomers nonetheless cling to, however youthful generations can’t assist however roll their eyes at.

1. Hand in your CV in individual

I’ll always remember my dad’s recommendation earlier than my first interview at a small music firm. He advised me, “Print your résumé on nice paper and hand it in at the front desk—it shows initiative.”

It wasn’t dangerous recommendation… in 1985. But in immediately’s world? Walking into an workplace with a printed CV may get you a confused look—or worse, safety escorting you out.

Most hiring methods are digital now, with applicant monitoring software program scanning for key phrases earlier than a human even seems at it.

Sure, displaying initiative remains to be vital, however as of late it’s extra about networking on LinkedIn or sending a considerate follow-up e mail than bodily delivering paper.

2. Dress in a swimsuit and tie

There was a time when success was measured by how effectively your tie knot sat below a crisp collar.

For boomers, “professionalism” was mainly synonymous with dressing up.

But in most fashionable workplaces, particularly in artistic industries and tech, a swimsuit and tie can really feel misplaced. Mark Zuckerberg reveals up in a hoodie, and loads of CEOs embrace sneakers and denims as the brand new uniform.

Dressing appropriately nonetheless issues—however acceptable now means becoming the tradition, not forcing a three-piece swimsuit into an off-the-cuff workplace. 

3. Stick with one firm

For boomers, loyalty to at least one firm was a badge of honor. Work laborious, keep put, and the corporate will deal with you.

That rule labored when pensions had been assured and climbing the company ladder was simple.

But the panorama has shifted. Today, staying too lengthy in a single place can truly harm your profession prospects. As data shows, job-hopping each few years can result in greater pay and extra various alternatives.

Younger employees worth progress, expertise, and suppleness over gold watches at retirement events. Loyalty is sweet—nevertheless it’s now not the neatest profession technique.

4. Buying a home as quickly as potential

Boomers grew up with the mantra: lease is throwing cash away. 

And this isn’t unfaithful. But, and it is a huge however, again then, homes had been much more reasonably priced relative to salaries.

Fast ahead to immediately, and that rule looks like a merciless joke. For many youthful individuals, saving for a down fee feels virtually unimaginable, particularly in huge cities.

Instead, renting can truly be the extra sensible alternative. It gives flexibility, avoids shock restore prices, and doesn’t tie you down when jobs (or life) shift shortly. 

5. Calling as a substitute of texting

I like my mother and father, however they nonetheless don’t fairly get why I’d moderately textual content than name.

I suppose it is as a result of them for them, the telephone was the primary lifeline of communication and outdated habits die laborious.

For me (and most of the people below 40), a telephone name feels virtually… intrusive.

Texting permits for readability, record-keeping, and respect for time. Plus, it lets us multitask in ways in which calls don’t. 

Boomers see calls as extra “personal.” Younger individuals see them as pointless until it’s pressing. Different occasions, completely different priorities.

6. Never speak about cash

One rule I keep in mind listening to again and again rising up: “Don’t talk about money—it’s private.”

For boomers, discussing wage was taboo. But youthful generations are breaking that rule huge open, and for good purpose.

Open conversations about cash—whether or not it’s salaries, money owed, or investments—assist degree the taking part in discipline and enhance data. 

This backed by some fairly influential figures, too. As noted author and professor, Scott Galloway, “If you want to get better at money, you need to be willing to talk about it.”

Keeping cash discuss hush-hush? Outdated. Knowledge is energy. 

7. Working more durable is all the time higher

Boomers typically lived by the idea that the more durable you grind, the higher off you’ll be. Long hours had been a badge of honor.

But right here’s the factor: analysis persistently reveals that productiveness doesn’t enhance previous a sure level—it truly drops. A Stanford study discovered that output falls sharply after about 50 hours per week.

Younger generations are beginning to prioritize stability, psychological well being, and significant work over limitless hours.

Work smarter, not more durable, has grow to be the brand new rule—and actually, it’s about time.

Boomers’ guidelines made sense on this planet they grew up in. But occasions have modified.

Technology, the financial system, and cultural values have shifted a lot that lots of these old-school guidelines now really feel impractical at finest, and counterproductive at worst.

That doesn’t imply we should always dismiss the knowledge of older generations. Some classes—like persistence, respect, and gratitude—are timeless.

But in relation to how we work, reside, and join, rewriting the playbook isn’t simply inevitable—it’s needed.