Sonia
Our way of everyday living has drastically changed in just 3 to 4 decades. Our lifestyle and preferences have evolved, transforming our lives like never before. Goods and services that were once normal have now become luxurious. These are the 15 luxuries today that were considered normal 40 years ago.
Owning Horses (Even One)
Families owning a horse was very typical 40 years ago, especially for those in rural areas or with enough space. However, today, keeping a horse has turned into a luxury given the cost of maintenance, veterinary care, and even the purchase amount. Besides that, lifestyle changes and small living spaces have made it more difficult.
Real Wood Furniture Pieces
Back in the day, real wood furniture was a common choice for households. However, with modernization and numerous choices around, the trend started to dim. Soon, real wood furniture became less common amongst furniture made of less expensive materials such as particleboard and plastic. Most of the original wood furniture pieces are today termed as luxury.
Original, High-Quality Silk Clothes
Finding faux silk is very common today, and it is easy to get fooled when buying pure silk. Nearly 4 decades back, real silk was considered normal, especially when choices were limited. However, the same turns out to be super expensive and luxurious today. Purchasing high-quality original silk today is no less than buying silver and gold.
Single Income Families Owning Homes, Cars and Enjoying Vacations
Forty years ago, families thrived on a single income/salary. Even in this limited arrangement, people were able to afford houses, cars, and occasional vacations. However, today, for a single-income family, it is no less than a luxury to own a house. Vehicles may still fall under the affordable category, but house ownership is a luxury.
Non-Digital Photography
Earlier, photography was a physical art form. Each shot was carefully planned and executed to capture timeless memories. Back then it was considered completely normal but today in the digital age and with smartphone cameras, non-digital photographs (and gadgets) are truly a luxury. It has now turned into a luxury indulgence.
Landline Phones
Landline phones were once used in homes and businesses as reliable means of communication. Before smartphones and wireless technology, having landlines was pretty normal. However, today, after the growing popularity of mobile phones and the internet, landline phones are becoming increasingly outdated. They are now instead termed as a luxury rather than a necessity.
Retiring
During the 80s, retirement was seen as a natural progression in someone’s life. Back then, people looked forward to this period of relaxation. However, slowly, the economic conditions changed. It eventually made retirement more of a luxury than a natural and expected step of life. Many people today choose to work late, mainly due to financial burdens.
Vinyl Records and Record Players
In the past, vinyl records and record players were dominant in the music marketplace. They were quite a common belonging to many households. However, today, when the world is influenced by digital music streaming services, owning a vinyl record has turned into a luxury and an antique collectible statement.
Organic Foods
Forty years ago, people used to grow their produce or purchase local, pesticide-free options easily. However, the last decade brought a drastic change with the rise of industrial farming and processed foods. What was then considered normal is now a luxury. Today, organic vegetables are expensive and are limited to specialty stores or farmers’ markets.
Fax Machines
Fax machines were previously an essential part of business communication. They offered speedy and easy delivery of documents. But later after emails and digital document sharing came into the picture, fax machines became more outdated. Presently, having a fax machine at the office or home is no less than a sign of luxury.
Healthy Eating/Dieting
Healthy eating (or dieting) has always been important yet very basic for general well-being. However, with the rise of convenience meals and fast-paced lifestyles, people now find it difficult to prioritize nutrition. Today maintaining a healthy eating regimen demands discipline and at times financial resources. Affording pure, organic food items is close to luxury today.
Privacy and Peace
Back then, privacy and peace were more easily accessible. People enjoyed a slow and steady life. But in this hyper-connected world, people prefer to read “top 10 tips” to achieve peace!. Digital surveillance and the fast-paced modern lifestyle have lowered the value of personal space and quiet time. Today, having the luxury of privacy and peace is challenging for many.
8 Hours of Daily Night Sleep
Sleep is a necessity, a natural process that our body adapts to. While getting enough sleep has always been important, today, the pressures of modern living have made it difficult. For many, getting a full eight hours of sleep each night has become more of a luxury than normal.
Long-Lasting Electronic Devices
Families once invested in appliances kept them for decades. However, today, the case is completely different. Nowadays, having electronics that are built to last and withstand the test of time is considered a luxury. Most of these products will cost you a fortune, yet with no surety of longevity.
Legroom in an Airplane
No matter how accessible and affordable air travel has become now, most of us have to deal with overcrowded cabins and smaller seat spaces. Many airlines prioritize boarding as many people as possible onto each aircraft. Today, even having enough legroom on an airline will demand paying for premium seating, which is nothing less than a luxury.
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