Let’s face it: the world is changing faster than a cat on a hot tin roof. Sometimes, what feels like a universal truth turns out to be a little outdated. You might think everyone’s on the same page, but surprise! Not everyone is sipping the same Kool-Aid. Here are six things people often assume are common but aren’t really the norm anymore. You might just find yourself nodding along, or maybe even chuckling at how times have changed.
1. Everyone’s Got a Landline
Remember when having a landline was a given? You’d call your friends, and if they weren’t home, you’d leave a message on the family voicemail. But nowadays? If you’re still clinging to that old corded dinosaur, you might be in the minority. With the rise of cell phones, many people have ditched their landlines faster than you can say “Can you hear me now?” In fact, according to recent surveys, nearly 70% of households in the U.S. are wireless-only. So, if you’re trying to reach someone and they don’t pick up, it’s probably not because they’re avoiding you; they just might not have a landline to miss your call!
2. Everyone’s Seen the Same TV Shows
It used to be that you could bond over the latest episode of a popular sitcom or drama. But with streaming services galore, the TV landscape looks more like a vast ocean of choices. From niche documentaries to foreign dramas, people are watching what they love—not necessarily what’s trending. So, if you’re trying to chat about the latest season of a show that seems to be everywhere, don’t be surprised if your friend gives you that blank stare. They’re likely binging something way off the mainstream radar. Just think of it this way: more options mean more conversations about things that truly pique our individual interests!
3. Everyone Reads Newspapers
Once upon a time, you’d see folks at cafes with a steaming cup of coffee, flipping through the morning paper. Fast forward to today, and the newspaper industry is taking a nosedive. Many people now get their news through social media or online platforms, making traditional print a bit of a relic. Sure, some people still enjoy the tactile experience of flipping pages, but the majority of us are scrolling through headlines on our phones while waiting for our lattes. If you’re an avid newspaper reader, you might want to keep your subscription close; it’s becoming the exclusive club of the old-school!
4. Everyone Knows How to Cook
In a world where cooking shows are as common as cat videos, you’d think everyone has a signature dish up their sleeve. But here’s the kicker: many people have never even boiled an egg! With the convenience of takeout apps and meal kits, cooking skills are on the decline. It’s not that people don’t want to learn; it’s just that they’re busy with life! So, if you invite friends over for a potluck and their contribution is store-bought, cut them some slack. They might be more comfortable with a microwave than a mixing bowl, and that’s okay!
5. Everyone’s Still Using Facebook
Ah, Facebook—the social media giant that used to be the place to be. But hold on! While you might still be scrolling through endless cat memes and family vacation photos, many younger folks have jumped ship. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have taken center stage, leaving Facebook feeling a bit like your grandma’s favorite pair of slippers—cozy but not exactly trendy anymore. If you’re trying to connect with the younger generation, don’t be surprised if they roll their eyes at your Facebook group invites. They’re likely hanging out where the action is: on platforms that are a bit flashier and a lot more visual.
6. Everyone’s Got a Side Hustle
It seems like everyone and their dog is trying to sell something these days, right? But here’s the truth: not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur. While it’s fantastic to see so many people pursuing their passions and side gigs, quite a few are just trying to keep their heads above water with their 9-to-5 jobs. In fact, many people value their downtime more than the hustle culture suggests. So, if your friend isn’t selling handmade soaps or running a podcast, it doesn’t mean they’re not ambitious; they might just prefer to binge-watch their favorite show instead!
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