The Harsh Realities Boomers Lived That Millennials Didn’t Have to Face
Boomers often get a bad rap, but many forget just how rough they had it growing up. From financial challenges to rigid social norms, life wasn’t a walk in the park.
Boomers navigated economic turmoil, intense job competition, and societal pressures that millennials don’t always deal with. While every generation has its struggles, the unique hardships boomers faced left a lasting impact on their lives.
Understanding these challenges helps to bridge the gap between generations and gives insight into how much the world has changed. Here are 19 reasons boomers had it rougher than millennials.
Job Insecurity Was Rampant
Boomers faced job insecurity right from the start. In the '70s and '80s, recessions and layoffs were frequent.
Entire industries would collapse overnight. Unlike millennials, many didn’t have the luxury of freelancing or the gig economy to fall back on.
Staggering Inflation
Boomers watched inflation soar in the '70s, crushing their purchasing power. The cost of basic goods and homes skyrocketed.
For millennials, inflation has been a challenge, but boomers saw it reach double digits. Saving money was nearly impossible, and wages didn’t keep up.
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Limited Access to Education
Higher education was more difficult to access for many boomers. Scholarships and financial aid weren’t as widely available.
Those who did attend college often shouldered a heavy burden, with fewer options to pay for it. Many had to choose between a degree or immediate work.
No Internet for Job Searching
Boomers had to rely on newspapers and word-of-mouth to find work. They couldn’t apply for jobs online or network on LinkedIn.
It was a slower, more competitive process. This lack of technology made career-building harder and more time-consuming.
Gender Roles Were Rigid
Social expectations were stricter, especially around gender. Women were expected to stay at home, while men carried the financial load.
Boomers who didn’t fit into these roles faced judgment. Breaking free from these norms took decades of effort.
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Fewer Mental Health Resources
Mental health wasn’t something people talked about. Boomers grew up with limited support for anxiety, depression, or trauma.
It wasn’t until much later that therapy and mental health care became more normalized. For many, mental health struggles went untreated.
Segregation and Civil Rights Battles
Boomers lived through a time of intense racial tension and segregation. Fighting for civil rights was dangerous and exhausting.
Many grew up in a divided society, facing institutionalized racism. The battles they fought laid the groundwork for a more inclusive world.
The Cold War Loomed Over Their Lives
The constant threat of nuclear war was terrifying. Boomers grew up with bomb drills in schools, fearing the worst.
The Cold War created a climate of paranoia and uncertainty. Millennials never had to experience this level of global tension.
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The Draft Was Real
Many boomers were drafted into the Vietnam War, without choice. This was a terrifying reality, especially for young men.
For those sent to war, it was a life-altering experience. Millennials have never faced a draft, making this a distinct boomer challenge.
Environmental Awareness Was Nonexistent
Boomers grew up in an era of pollution and industrial waste. There was little awareness or action regarding the environment.
Climate change wasn’t on anyone’s radar. Boomers faced the consequences of unchecked environmental damage.
Divorce Was Stigmatized
Divorce carried heavy stigma for boomers, especially for women. Leaving a bad marriage often resulted in social and financial ruin.
Many stayed in unhealthy relationships out of fear. Today, divorce is more accepted and doesn’t carry the same shame.
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Medical Care Was Expensive and Limited
Healthcare options were fewer and often unaffordable. Boomers didn’t have access to the same level of care as we do today.
Insurance wasn’t as widely available, leaving many vulnerable. The lack of coverage meant small illnesses could lead to financial disaster.
Technology Was Minimal
Boomers grew up without computers, smartphones, or even ATMs. Everything from banking to communication was slower and more complex.
For millennials, technology simplifies life, from work to daily tasks. Boomers had to do everything manually.
Fewer Opportunities for Career Changes
Boomers often had to stick with one career path for life. Switching careers wasn’t as easy or accepted.
Today, millennials have more freedom to pivot or explore different jobs. Boomers didn’t always have that luxury.
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Homophobia Was Rampant
LGBTQ+ individuals faced extreme prejudice and violence. Boomers grew up in a world where being open about sexuality could be life-threatening.
While strides have been made today, boomers had to fight for basic acceptance. Their struggles paved the way for future generations.
Child-Rearing Pressure Was Intense
Boomers were expected to raise children in a very specific way. Parenting manuals dictated strict rules, leaving little room for flexibility.
Parents who strayed from these norms faced harsh judgment. Millennials have more freedom to parent in diverse and creative ways.
No Work-Life Balance
Boomers were expected to work long hours without complaint. There was little concept of work-life balance, especially for men.
This led to burnout and strained family relationships. Millennials are now advocating for a healthier balance between work and personal life.
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Social Mobility Was Limited
Social mobility was harder for boomers, especially without education. Class divisions were more pronounced, and moving up the ladder was difficult.
Opportunities were limited for those born into poverty. Today, while not perfect, there are more pathways for millennials to succeed.
Marriage Was Often Seen as the Only Option
Boomers were often pressured to marry young, regardless of readiness. Staying single was seen as a failure, especially for women.
This led many into unhappy marriages they felt they couldn’t leave. Today, millennials face less pressure to marry early or at all.
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