A PAYCHECK has several facets, depending on one's age. And perhaps, the era matters?
In our 20s, it meant pizza nights, weekend nights out, and fashion shopping. During this era, the only gadget available, and it was even company-paid, was the pager or beeper. A few years after, the analog mobile phone was born, and it was the in thing then. It was a novelty item despite its enormous size. Paychecks then were inside an envelope and given by the teller, the human ATM.
A weekend night out with friends means eating at a pizza house and dancing in a disco club. Ledge dancing was never an issue. A company night out wouldn't be complete without a karaoke session.
Then the 30s came. Paychecks still meant the same as when we were in our 20s with a few additions and upgrading. Dining at restaurants, bar-hopping, weekend getaways, and traveling were added. A Friday and a Saturday wouldn't pass without going to a bar where live bands played, and we danced to their beat. We had a term for it. Mag "batin." Right, ToniT? Some of us during this time have started to budget for the household and kids' education. Coffee shops also became a haven in our late 30s.
The 40s is a different thing. Paychecks were synonymous with responsibilities. Gone were the bar-hopping days. You've learned to slow down and enjoy the simpler things in life. Shopping is more practical as you have already become acquainted with your style. You now know the difference between what you want and what looks good on you. You have a preferred shop or brand and stick with it.
It is also at this age that coffee talks include health, medical check-ups, and the like. It serves as an entry when you start your journey to the 50s.
The 50s, well, paychecks do a balancing act. It pays the bills, and you can save more because most of your kids are already employed. Yet, you still have a little extra for some dining with friends. You go out for dinner or lunch but now prefer intimate settings. Shop talks focus on retirement, investments, and grown-up children. Shopping for shoes become more practical but still stylish.
You become more aware and active in the society. Some people now look to you for life and career advice.
A client in his late 50s, a few years back, once told me that fuel cost is no longer an issue when you reach a certain age. You become more concerned with its effect on the environment. I retorted it was because he could afford it. He laughed.
That was our generation's paycheck over the years. Is it still the same with this generation's 20s and 30s?
No matter what age or generation, a paycheck will always mean the same thing. It helps you get through life.
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