Ever notice how your Gen X coworkers have their morning routines down to an art, while younger folks seem to dart out the door with coffee in one hand and their phone in the other? Just this morning, I found myself checking the weather on my TV and writing a to-do list, while my millennial neighbor was already cruising down the street, probably ordering coffee through an app.
This generational divide in how we prepare for the day goes beyond just being “old school” versus “tech-savvy.” It shows how different we approach time, preparation, and daily life.
Here are some distinct habits I’ve noticed Gen Xers practice before heading out that younger generations may overlook. Interestingly, both styles have their perks.
Weather Updates
Gen Xers often tune into local news for weather updates. There’s something reassuring about hearing it from a familiar voice rather than relying solely on a weather app. It’s not just nostalgia; it feels more dependable. Millennials, on the other hand, might check a quick weather app or simply trust whatever alerts pop up.
Writing It Down
A notepad by the door is a staple for many Gen Xers. Writing reminders or to-do lists has a way of sticking in your mind better than typing. This habit comes from a time when forgetting it meant forgetting about it. Younger generations often use apps or voice notes—quick and efficient, but easily lost in the digital shuffle.
Checking Voicemail
Many Gen Xers still check their voicemail before leaving. Missing an important call used to be a big deal, especially in fast-paced jobs like finance. Millennials tend to text instead, preferring that over listening to long messages. For them, communication is instant and brief.
Paperwork Preparation
Gen Xers frequently have insurance cards, IDs, and printed tickets. They grew up in a time when a digital version wasn’t always accepted. This preparation can offer peace of mind. In contrast, younger folks screenshot important documents and rely on their phones, which feels more convenient.
Cash on Hand
“Do you have any cash?” is common among Gen Xers. Many keep cash stashed away just in case. This habit stems from experiences like the 2008 financial crisis, which highlighted the vulnerabilities of electronic payment systems. Millennials, however, trust digital payments, often viewing cash as outdated.
Alarm Trust
When it comes to alarms, Gen Xers like to set multiple ones. It provides reassurance for early risers. Millennials often rely on a single phone alarm, with many trusting technology to wake them up.
Lock Checks
Before leaving, many Gen Xers do a physical check of locks and appliances. It’s about verifying everything is safe and secure. Millennials might trust smart home devices for these tasks, finding the physical check unnecessary.
Route Planning
Gen Xers often review routes before heading out, sometimes even writing down directions. This creates a mental map of their journey. Millennials tend to rely on GPS, trusting the technology to guide them without manual prep.
Email Practices
For many Gen Xers, checking emails happens at a desktop computer. It’s where they feel the most productive. Millennials, however, check emails on their phones throughout the day, integrating it into their routine.
Confirming Plans
Making a phone call to confirm plans is commonplace for Gen Xers. They prefer to hear a “yes” from a person rather than rely solely on a digital invite. Millennials often assume notifications will inform them of any changes, viewing calls as unnecessary.
These differences highlight more than just habits; they reflect our varying relationships with trust, technology, and time. Gen X has adapted in an era when technology was evolving but not always reliable, leading them to develop backup plans. Millennials, who grew up with technology, have streamlined processes to fit their fast-paced lifestyles.
Understanding these differences can help bridge generational gaps. Perhaps the best approach is a blend of the two: keep some cash, trust your phone, double-check important things, and know your route—but don’t stress about it too much. Ultimately, we all want to get where we need to go, hopefully on time and with ease. How you achieve that may just come down to when you were born.
For additional insights, you can check out this recent study on generational differences that delves into how habits shape our daily lives.
