Lisa O
Society is always changing, yet some outdated traditions and expectations still linger. Many of these social norms made sense in the past, but now they feel completely unnecessary—or even harmful—and they need to stop. It’s time to move on and rethink the rules we blindly follow. Here are 15 social norms that need to go.
Keeping Conversations “Polite” at All Costs
Since we’re kids, we’ve been taught to avoid topics like money, politics, and mental health to keep conversations “polite.” But important issues deserve open discussions. Pretending everything is fine all the time doesn’t help anyone. Avoiding tough topics reinforces stigma, and it also keeps people from expressing their true thoughts. Respect matters, but so does honesty.
Working Yourself to Exhaustion as a Badge of Honor
For too long, being constantly busy has been seen as a sign of success. But working yourself to exhaustion is NOT something you should brag about—it will eventually lead to burnout. Productivity shouldn’t come at the cost of sleep, relationships, or mental health. More people are realizing that taking breaks and setting boundaries isn’t laziness—it’s necessary for a healthier, more sustainable life.
Getting Married Just Because It’s “Time”
There’s still pressure to settle down by a certain age (like the late 20s), as if marriage is a milestone everyone must hit. But not everyone wants—or needs—to get married. Some people prefer long-term relationships without any kind of legal contract. Others, on the flip side, are happy being single as they think getting married is a personal choice, not any sort of deadline set by society that you need to meet.
Dressing “Appropriately” Based on Age
The idea that clothes have an expiration date based on age is outdated now. Who decides what’s “too young” or “too old” for you? If someone in their 50s feels great wearing ripped jeans or a 20-something loves classic cardigans, what’s the problem? Fashion should be about confidence and personal style—not following pointless rules about what’s “appropriate.”
Always Greeting People with a Handshake
Handshakes have been the go-to greeting for many years, but not everyone is a fan. Some people prefer a wave, a nod, or even a fist bump. Forcing physical contact just because it’s tradition feels unnecessary to some people. If both people are comfortable shaking hands, great—if not, there are lots of other ways to be polite.
Expecting Women to Take Their Husband’s Last Name
Many women still take their husband’s last names (because they want to), but the idea that they have to is outdated. Some women prefer to keep their own name, hyphenate, or even have their partner take their last name. Marriage is not about giving up a part of your identity. The decision should be personal, not something society assumes is automatic.
Judging People for Living with Their Parents
There’s an old belief that adults must move out as soon as possible to be independent. But with rising living costs, many people—especially in certain cultures—live with family well into adulthood. In countries like India, there’s not even a concept of moving out from your parent’s house. It’s often practical, financially smart, and can even strengthen family bonds.
Viewing Certain Jobs as “Better” Than Others
Society has treated office jobs as the gold standard of success for too long, while trades, service work, and creative careers get overlooked. But these jobs keep the world running—and many of them pay just as well, if not better. Success is not about sitting at a desk but about doing meaningful work that fits your skills and goals.
Expecting Men Never to Show Emotion
For generations, men have been told to be tough, to hide their emotions, and never cry in front of anyone or at all. But bottling up feelings doesn’t make someone stronger—it just makes life harder. Everyone experiences emotions, and expressing them is healthy (vulnerability is human). It’s time to move past the outdated idea that “real men” must always be stoic.
Assuming Women Should Always Want Kids
Women have been expected to have children for many generations as if it’s their ultimate life goal to be a mom and to raise perfect children. But not everyone wants to be a parent. A woman’s worth isn’t defined by whether she has (or wants) kids, and choosing a child-free life should never invite judgment or endless questioning from anyone.
Treating Gray Hair Like a Problem
Somehow, gray hair became something people felt pressured to cover up—especially women. But why? Why should aging be something to hide? Many people these days are choosing to embrace their silver strands instead of regularly reaching for hair dye. You don’t have to cover up gray in order to look good.
Believing That Being Single Means Being Unhappy
For the longest time, being single—especially past a certain age—was seen as something to pity. But plenty of people lead happy, fulfilling lives without a romantic partner. A relationship isn’t the only path to joy or success, and being single isn’t some unfortunate status that needs to be “fixed.” It’s just as valid a choice as being in a couple.
Feeling the Need to Apologize for Everything
Many people—especially women—have been taught to apologize for things that don’t need an apology—saying “sorry” for asking a question, speaking up, or just existing in a space. Yeah, that needs to stop. Being polite is one thing, but constantly apologizing for no real reason just makes you shrink yourself. You don’t owe anyone an apology for taking up space.
Treating Mental Health as a Taboo Topic
Not too long ago, admitting you were struggling mentally was seen as something to be ashamed of (it was considered abnormal). There’s no doubt that things are getting better as we’re normalizing talking about mental health, but that outdated mindset still lingers. The truth is, there’s nothing wrong with going to therapy, taking medication, or just being open about mental health.
Forcing Small Talk in Every Interaction
Asking about the weather or making forced chit-chat just to fill that awkward silence can exhaust you (or anyone, to be fair). Some people prefer to get straight to the point, while others enjoy deeper, more meaningful conversations. There’s nothing wrong with skipping the pleasantries if both people are comfortable with it—silence doesn’t always need to be filled.
