Wondering what the habits Gen X just never got rid of are? We decided to ask the people. After speaking to several Gen Xers, we realized that many of their habits aren’t necessarily steeped in nostalgia but have simply become part of their routine over the years. Here are a few that they shared.
Carrying a flashlight
Gen Xers were taught to always have a flashlight around, and many still keep one in the car or purse. No phone flashlight. An ACTUAL flashlight. It’s an old power outage and camping habit that’s hard to break, or just the comfort of light you control.
Re-reading old magazines for ads and articles
We all have a pile of old magazines gathering dust in our basements or garages. And when a Gen Xer is bored, they dig right in, not only for the articles but for those old ads. Prices, fonts, ideas and trends that feel like another century, are a trip down memory lane. For these Gen Xers, it’s personal history as their own timeline of culture unfolds between the pages.
Having a pen handy at all times
In a world full of phones, some still feels naked if there isn’t a pen in a pocket or purse. They may not use it every day, but that day is always coming when you need to fill out a form, write a number, or scribble a note. It’s less about writing for Gen Xers, but having the ability to do so.“
Keeping a “rainy day” drawer of random tools
They may not use it every day, but they know where it is: that one drawer with tape measures, screwdrivers, extra batteries and random little doohickeys. This stash may be more nostalgia than necessity, but it’s nice to know it’s there if needed.
Hiding spare keys in odd spots
Many Gen Xers we spoke to still put extra keys under doormats, inside fake rocks or behind porch lights. It’s a security ritual apps and smart locks can’t replace. They want to know there’s a physical backup they can find with their eyes.
Saving spare buttons from clothes
When these Gen Xers were kids, new shirts always came with an extra button. They keep them in jars or envelopes because it’s a cute tradition, even if they don’t remember which shirt goes with which button.
Pressing clothes even when they don’t have to
You’ll never see these Gen Xers go outside with wrinkled clothes, no matter how informal it is. They’ll just run an iron over that shirt or pair of pants first. It’s not a style thing. It’s more a lifelong belief that neat appearance shows respect.
Keeping plastic grocery bags in a bigger bag
Hidden in the corner of the Gen X kitchen or closet is a giant bag stuffed full of smaller ones. They’re reused for trash cans or lunches or dog messes. Even if everyone switched to reusable totes, they still have these bags because it feels so wasteful to throw them away.
Tucking money in random spots
$20 in the glove box, a wad of folded bills in a coat pocket, a secret stash of cash in the freezer, Gen X knows how to squirrel away emergency money. It’s not so much distrust of banks; it’s just wanting to know you have it right when you need it.
Saving old birthday candles
Hidden in the cupboard is a bag or tin full of half-melted birthday candles. Gen Xers reuse the same candles year after year instead of throwing them away. It’s a little tradition that makes cakes feel like the old ones.
Using the same mug for years
This Gen Xer has a chipped, faded mug that just never gets replaced. And they say their friends have a similar mug of their own. They got it at work, on a trip, or at a store that no longer exists and it always feels so “right” in their hands. No matter how many new mugs they get, that good old mug stays on the counter.
Saving receipts for keepsake items
It doesn’t matter if it was purchased 40 years ago, some Gen Xers still save the receipt in a drawer or box. They’re not saving it for the money spent, they just want to remember where and when they bought something special.
One last look at the stove
Even on the busiest of mornings, a quick check of the kitchen is always in order. It doesn’t take much time but it spares them the nagging question that haunts their drive or meetings: “Did I leave the gas on?” A quick peek can save hours of anxiety.
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