Isn’t it amusing how Baby Boomers often find themselves at the receiving end of playful jabs from younger generations? I mean, sure, occasionally they do take it a bit too far with their nostalgic ideals! But hang on a minute—could this be an example of ageism that clouds our ability to truly learn from their experiences? When we glance at the decades-long marriages that many Boomers have cultivated, it’s a treasure trove of insights waiting to be uncovered. Their ability to navigate social changes and personal hurdles with resilience speaks volumes! So, what can we glean from the Quirky Communication Styles of Boomers that may just help us foster deeper connections in our own lives? After all, isn’t it high time we learn from those who’ve stood the test of time? LEARN MORE.
Baby Boomers tend to be seen as out of step or silly in their ideals; younger generations just love to make fun of them, although sometimes for good reason. Of course, this is an example of ageism and doesn’t help move our conversations or relationships forward in a productive way.
The Boomer marriage that has lasted over the decades is a particularly special occurrence that we all can take note of. The long-lasting Baby Boomer marriage has stood the test of time, social change, personal differences, and who knows how many disagreements between both partners. So, there must be something to learn from their habits.
Advertisement
Aleksandra Sapohnikova / Unsplash
Divorce mediator Jennifer S. Hargrave has been between many arguing spouses and says one Boomer habit sets longer-lasting marriages apart: “A Boomer marital habit that makes for better marriages is actual face-to-face communication, and spending time together talking,” she explains. “While we may make fun of Boomers for not being as tech-savvy as the younger generations, they also are not caught up in doom-scrolling while sitting right next to their partner.”
Advertisement
Couples counselor Siddharth S. Kumaar has discovered from his older Baby Boomer clients that, “In a marriage, direct phone contact has various advantages to texting, most of which cannot be replicated. By properly expressing tone and emotion, it helps to avoid misinterpretation and thereby lessens misunderstandings.” Making the effort to contact shows your spouse that they are a top concern and reflects intentionality.
“When the norm for communication has been reduced to emails, texting, or a social media post, perhaps one of the most endearing habits that still warms the heart and ensures closeness is a handwritten expression of gratitude or appreciation,” says marriage educator Larry Michel.
Michel continues with examples: “From a sticky pad note left on a mirror to a sweet card in an envelope left on a counter or sitting next to a single stem flower leaves the mark of a delicious surprise that is rarely, if ever, forgotten.”
Advertisement
Therapist Gloria Brame knows the importance of a dedicated meal time. “When I was growing up, my parents served a balanced dinner promptly at 6 pm. There were no devices to distract us from the meal. That meant we had to talk to each other for entertainment.”
“These days, couples are distracted by their jobs, friends, and devices, have fewer conversations at the table (if they even sit at a dinner table), and often rely on fast-food delivery or snacks to feel full.”
According to Brame, “Dinner time doesn’t have to be rigid, but the health of a marriage should make time for conversation every night, before you’re sleepy or get caught up in a TV binge. It’s also better for personal health to have a meal two to three hours before bedtime every night.”
Advertisement
jordi / Unsplash
Relationship coach Michelle E. Vasquez has seen the shift toward instant gratification creeping into how people approach their marriages. “I want it in 30 seconds, and I want it hot, tasty, and inexpensive,” Vasques observed. “Since the advent of fast food, we seem to have become an instant gratification society.”
Vazquez points out that this mindset eventually finds its way into how people see their relationships. “They think of their marriage as fast food, not fine dining. It becomes a disposable commodity instead of something to treasure and enjoy.”
Advertisement
Boomers know how to take time, focus, and produce positive results when they have the energy of love driving their actions. The long-lasting Baby Boomer marriage is exceptional in many ways, the least of which is the fact that the relationship has survived into the 21st century and beyond, which is probably enough to make the rest of the generations perk their heads up and take notes. Handwritten notes, preferably.
Will Curtis is YourTango’s expert editor. Will has over 14 years of experience as an editor covering relationships, spirituality, and human interest topics.
Advertisement
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.