(CLAIR) – As we look back on our teenage years, it’s interesting to see how many of the things that were once so popular have evolved and changed. From the way we hang out with friends to the way we communicate and even the music we listen to, everything is constantly in flux.
In this article, we will explore 11 examples of how our teenage lives have been replaced by things that are better. From new and improved hangout spots to more efficient ways of communicating and more, these changes have made our lives more convenient and enjoyable.
Radio Shack has been replaced by The Apple Store: Radio Shack was once a popular destination for electronics and gadgets, but it has since been replaced by The Apple Store as the go-to spot for the latest technology.
Orange Julius has been replaced by Dutch Bros: Orange Julius was a popular hangout spot for teens in the past, but it has been replaced by the trendy and modern coffee chain Starbucks and the up-and-coming Dutch Bros.
The Living Room Big Screen has been replaced by The Iphone: In the past, the living room big screen was the centerpiece of the home entertainment experience, but today, the Iphone has surpassed it as the primary device for watching movies and TV shows.
Burger King has been replaced by Chick-Fil-A: Burger King was once a popular fast food chain and one of the firsts to offer free drink refills. It has since been totally eclipsed by the rise of Chick-Fil-A, which has become a cultural phenomenon.
The Family Car has been replaced by Individual Cars: In the past, the family car was a shared resource, but now pretty much anyone of driving age living in the home needs their own car. Today, Simi Valley driveways and neighborhoods are filled with cars used mostly by just one person.
The Video Arcade has been replaced by Video Games Every Child’s Bedroom: When Chuck E. Cheese’s first came to town, the video arcade was an incredibly popular hangout spot for Simi teens, but now every kid has an entire video arcade library in their bedrooms, able to play hundreds of games with friends from school and with friends from around the world.
Crumbled Cash has been replaced by Venmo: In the past, keeping track of coins and cash was a hassle, but now Venmo makes it easier to pay and track transactions with friends and family.
Rap Music Then has been replaced by Rap Music Now: Controversial music, particularly rap and hip hop, is still with us, but it has taken on a different form. Compare the styles of Run DMC to that of Tekashi 69 and the Island Boys and you’ll shake your head and wonder how Jam Master Jay was every such a problem for some of parents.
Talking has been replaced by Texting: In the past, teens spent hours talking on the phone, but today they prefer to type and text.
Cigarette Smoking has been replaced by Vaping: In the past, cigarette smoking was a common and accepted practice among teens. In fact, Simi High School allowed teen smoking on its campus as late as 1986. Today however, vaping has become the preferred method of using nicotine among the youth. Vaping is seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes, but it still carries significant health risks.
City Bus has been replaced by your Uber Driver: In the past, the city bus was a common mode of transportation for many people, but with the rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, more and more teens are choosing to use these apps for their transportation needs instead of relying on public transportation.
Overall, it’s clear that popular culture is constantly changing and evolving. From the way we hang out with friends to the way we communicate and even the music we listen to, everything is constantly in flux. It will be interesting to see how these trends continue to change in the future.
