Baby Boomers often face criticism for their views and habits, but not everything they championed deserves scrutiny. In fact, many of their values and practices hold lessons for younger generations.
Here are 15 things Boomers got absolutely right.
Saving for a Rainy Day
Boomers were big believers in saving money for emergencies. They grew up in a time when credit wasn’t as readily available, so they learned to set aside funds for unexpected expenses. This habit helped them weather economic downturns and personal setbacks with less stress.
Fixing Things Instead of Replacing Them
Rather than tossing broken items, the boomer generation often repaired them. Whether it was patching up clothes, mending furniture, or fixing appliances, they valued resourcefulness and knew how to make things last.
In today’s disposable culture, this approach is making a comeback, especially as people embrace sustainability and reducing waste.
Writing Thank-You Notes
A handwritten thank-you note might seem old-fashioned, but boomers knew its value. This simple gesture showed gratitude and respect, strengthening personal and professional relationships. Emails and texts may dominate today’s communication, but a thoughtfully written note still leaves a lasting impression, proving that some traditions never go out of style.
Gardening for Fresh Food
The simple act of growing food at home served multiple purposes. Not only did it provide fresh, delicious produce, but it also connected people to the land and gave them a sense of accomplishment.
Tending a garden offered a chance to unwind, unplug, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nurturing something. Whether it’s a backyard vegetable patch or a windowsill herb garden, cultivating your own food is rewarding in more ways than one.
Cooking at Home
Dining out was a treat, not a routine, for the older generation. They prioritized home-cooked meals, which were healthier and more affordable than eating out regularly. This habit not only saved money but also brought families together around the dinner table. With the rising costs of dining out today, this approach to cooking at home is as relevant as ever.
Living Within Their Means
Boomers understood the importance of budgeting and avoiding unnecessary debt. They saved up for what they wanted instead of relying on credit cards to fund their purchases. The idea was simple: if you couldn’t afford it, you waited until you could. While this approach might seem restrictive in today’s instant-gratification culture, it’s a powerful strategy for building long-term financial security.
Valuing Hard Work
The Boomer generation grew up with a strong work ethic, believing that dedication and effort could lead to success. They weren’t afraid of starting at the bottom and working their way up, a lesson that remains important today. While work-life balance is essential, their commitment to persistence and responsibility is still admirable.
Taking Pride in Homeownership
Owning a home wasn’t just a milestone, it was a source of pride. Homeownership symbolized stability, independence, and the opportunity to build something lasting. Maintaining a home was just as important, with weekends often spent on DIY projects and improvements.
Even in today’s challenging housing market, this commitment to treating a home as an investment, both financially and emotionally, offers a valuable perspective.
Reading Physical Books
There’s a unique pleasure in the feel of a book in your hands, the sound of flipping pages, and the absence of digital distractions. For many, books provided an escape, a chance to focus fully on a story or learn something new. As more people look for ways to step away from screens, the enduring appeal of physical books reminds us of the joy of simple, uninterrupted reading.
Dressing Appropriately
Boomers believed in dressing for the occasion, whether it was for work, social events, or travel. They understood that appearance sends a message and valued the respect that came with being well-presented. It’s obvious that dress codes have become more casual now, but the emphasis on dressing thoughtfully is still relevant in professional and formal settings.
Prioritizing Family Time
Family gatherings were sacred, whether it was Sunday dinners, holidays, or casual get-togethers. These moments weren’t just about tradition, they were about connection. In a world that feels increasingly fast-paced and fragmented, the effort to carve out quality time with loved ones is a value that never goes out of style.
Sending Holiday Cards
Boomers took the time to send holiday cards each year, often including personal messages or family updates. This tradition fostered connections and showed loved ones they were thought of during special times.
While social media has replaced much of this, the thoughtfulness of sending a physical card still carries weight.
Taking Breaks From Technology
Growing up without constant screens meant more time spent outdoors, face-to-face conversations, and living in the moment. Even now, those who maintain this balanced approach to technology find themselves less stressed and more connected to the world around them. In a time when it’s hard to put down our phones, their example is a reminder of the value of unplugging.
Respecting Elders
Showing respect for older generations was deeply ingrained in Boomer culture. They valued the wisdom and experience of their elders, listening to their stories and seeking their advice. In today’s fast-moving world, this respect is a tradition worth continuing, as it fosters intergenerational understanding and appreciation.
Keeping Things Simple
Life didn’t need to be complicated to be fulfilling. A walk in the park, a home-cooked meal, or a good conversation was enough to bring joy. This focus on simplicity and quality over quantity is a lesson that feels especially relevant in today’s overstimulated, over-scheduled world. Sometimes, the best things in life really are the simplest.