Once upon a time, before we could ask Siri how to boil an egg or summon dinner with three taps on an app, people had to do stuff. Like, with their actual hands and brains. Shocking, I know.
Boomers—those crafty, resourceful humans born somewhere between the invention of the hula hoop and the rise of disco—had to figure things out the old-fashioned way. And guess what? A lot of their “ancient” skills are making a comeback. Whether it’s for the aesthetics, the self-reliance, or the thrill of telling people, “I made this myself,” these Boomer skills are back in style and cooler than ever.
Here are some of the vintage talents you might want to dust off:
1. Sewing: Like Witchcraft, But for Fabric
Ever popped a button and felt like the universe was personally attacking you? Boomers would just pull out a needle, some thread, and stitch that sucker back on during a commercial break. These days, learning to hem your pants or repair a tear isn’t just practical—it’s practically a superpower. Plus, you’ll feel incredibly smug about not buying another $80 pair of jeans.
2. The Handwritten Note: Because “Thx” Doesn’t Cut It
Sure, emojis are great. But there’s something powerful about actual handwriting—especially when it’s not your doctor’s. A thank-you note, a birthday card, or even a “just because” letter can melt hearts in a way no text message ever could. Bonus points if you use stationery and not just the back of a takeout menu.
3. Using a Paper Map: AKA Adult-Level Origami
Yes, it folds. Yes, it’s confusing. And yes, you’ll definitely hold it upside down at least once. But navigating with a paper map makes you feel like Indiana Jones. Plus, it works even when your phone battery’s deader than your houseplant. Bonus: Unfolding a map in public basically screams “I’m having an adventure!”
4. Making Small Talk: The Original Social Network
Let’s be honest—many of us have forgotten how to chat about the weather without spiraling into a rant about the climate crisis. But small talk is a surprisingly powerful skill. Whether you’re in line at the coffee shop or making awkward eye contact in an elevator, knowing how to break the ice can turn strangers into acquaintances—and maybe even friends.
5. Cooking Without a Recipe: Channeling Grandma Energy
Boomers didn’t need step-by-step TikTok videos with lo-fi music. They just cooked. A pinch of this, a splash of that, and dinner appeared. Learning to cook intuitively isn’t just impressive—it’s liberating. You’ll finally understand what people mean by “season to taste,” and yes, it will involve garlic.
6. Growing Your Own Food: Like Grocery Shopping, but Slower and Dirtier
There’s something ridiculously satisfying about eating a tomato you grew yourself—especially after you named it, watered it, and defended it from squirrels like a gladiator. Gardening is therapeutic, grounding, and low-key magical. Also, plants don’t ghost you.
7. DIY Repairs: Because YouTube Is the New Grandpa
Whether it’s unclogging a drain, fixing a leaky faucet, or reattaching a cabinet door that’s given up on life, learning to fix things yourself is wildly empowering. It saves money, builds confidence, and gives you yet another reason to say, “They just don’t make things like they used to.”
Final Thought
It turns out our Boomer relatives were onto something with all their “back in my day” skills. Sure, we’ve got apps and AI now (hi 👋), but there’s a certain kind of joy—and smug satisfaction—that comes from knowing how to do things the old-school way.
So next time you’re tempted to toss out that shirt with the missing button or call someone to fix your squeaky door, pause for a second. Somewhere inside you is a Boomer spirit with a can-do attitude and a sewing kit yelling, “I got this!”
