Etiquette Rules Boomers Followed That Many Gen Zers Don’t Today

For many Baby Boomers, good manners were a part of everyday life. Simple rules like saying “please” and “thank you,” waiting your turn, and showing respect in social settings were often taught early and reinforced over time. These habits shaped how people interacted at home, at school, and in public.

As each generation comes along, social norms tend to shift. What once felt essential can start to feel less formal or even unnecessary, especially as lifestyles become more casual and communication styles evolve. Younger generations, including Gen Z, often approach etiquette in ways that reflect modern values, convenience, and changing expectations.

This list takes a look at traditional etiquette rules many Boomers grew up with and how those expectations compare to what’s more common today. It offers a snapshot of how everyday manners have changed across generations and why those differences continue to spark conversation.

There was a time when if you received a gift, you wrote a thank-you note — handwritten, mind you — and mailed it to the person you were thanking. In fact, there was an entire stationery industry that thrived on creating beautiful sheets of paper and carefully coordinated envelopes to ensure that not only were the words of thanks thoughtful, but that they looked nice, too.

Folks of a certain age likely recall being told to put their napkin in their lap, elbows off the table, chew with their mouth closed, and the proper way to set a table and use the utensils. Oh! And don't forget to say grace.

The irony of phones today? No one likes to talk on them. Boomers know that there was a time when you answered the phone with "Smith residence."

Traveling by airplane meant one thing was certain: you were to be dressed up for this exceptional travel experience. Women wore skirts or dresses, and men wore suits and ties. Nowadays, it's more common for people to dress comfortably on planes.

Whether you were interacting with your parents, your teachers, or any other adult, children were always to address their elders as sir and ma'am as a show of respect.

Whenever an adult entered the room, children were to stand up and acknowledge their arrival as a show of respect. Bonus points if you extended your hand for a handshake.

Fashion has certainly changed over the past fifty years. Many fashion items were related to etiquette as well. Men were expected to tip their hats as a greeting or show of recognition for another person.

It was considered polite for a man to open his date's or significant other's car door for her and close it once she was neatly inside before he got into the driver's side. Although many still consider this proper etiquette, it's something that has fallen out of practice as well.