Boomers have been around the block a few times, and some of their old-school habits are finding their way back into the mainstream—turns out, they knew a thing or two. From sustainable practices to analog hobbies, these retro ways of living are making life feel a little richer and a lot more intentional. Let’s dive into the habits of Boomers that are cooler (and more relevant) than ever.
1. Writing Letters (Yes, By Hand)
Remember the thrill of opening a handwritten letter? Boomers kept this art alive, and now, it’s making a serious comeback. Writing letters is slower, more personal, and infinitely more meaningful than a text. Whether it’s a thank-you note or a heartfelt birthday card, the time and thought behind pen-to-paper communication feel like a breath of fresh air in our hyper-digital world.
2. Fixing Things Instead Of Tossing Them
Before “fast fashion” and disposable gadgets, Boomers were all about fixing what you’ve got. Sewing a torn shirt or repairing a leaky faucet was standard, not optional. Today’s repair cafes and DIY movements are proof that this mindset is back in style—and good for the planet. It’s not just practical; it’s a reminder to value what we have instead of constantly replacing it.
3. Making Phone Calls
While Gen Z might cringe at the thought, Boomers never shied away from picking up the phone for an actual conversation. There’s something undeniably warm and immediate about hearing someone’s voice. Whether it’s catching up with a friend or settling plans in five minutes instead of 50 texts, phone calls are regaining their place as a simple yet effective way to connect.
4. Growing Your Own Food
Victory gardens and backyard veggie patches weren’t just hobbies for Boomers—they were a way of life. Now, younger generations are embracing this sustainable habit. Growing your own herbs, tomatoes, or even raising chickens (thanks, Boomers) makes food feel more personal and less wasteful. Plus, nothing tastes as good as something you’ve grown yourself.
5. Playing Card And Board Games
Before endless screen time, Boomers gathered around tables for raucous games of gin rummy, Scrabble, and Monopoly. Today, board games are back in a big way, thanks to their ability to bring people together and create memories that don’t require Wi-Fi. Dust off that deck of cards—it’s time to embrace a little friendly competition.
6. Cooking From Scratch
Convenience foods may have dominated the last few decades, but Boomers mastered the art of home-cooked meals. With farm-to-table dining and cooking shows on the rise, the world is rediscovering the joys (and health benefits) of cooking from scratch. Making a meal from simple, wholesome ingredients feels nourishing in more ways than one.
7. Using Cash (And Balancing A Budget)
While Boomers may not have had Venmo or Apple Pay, they did have a knack for living within their means. Paying in cash and tracking expenses in a checkbook (remember those?) taught them financial discipline. Today, with cash stuffing and budgeting apps trending, the younger crowd is rediscovering the value of knowing exactly where their money goes.
8. Hanging Clothes On A Line
Air-drying clothes may have started as a necessity, but Boomers knew the secret: clothes last longer and smell amazing when dried in fresh air. Now, with sustainability top of mind, more people are returning to this energy-saving habit. Bonus points for that sun-kissed scent you just can’t get from a dryer sheet.
9. Reading Physical Books
E-readers and audiobooks are great, but there’s nothing quite like the feel of a physical book in your hands. Boomers grew up devouring paperbacks, and their love for real books is rubbing off on younger generations. From the smell of fresh pages to the satisfaction of turning each one, this analog habit is here to stay.
10. Sending Thoughtful Gifts
Boomers didn’t rely on Amazon wishlists or Venmo transfers—they put thought into gifting. A handmade scarf, a framed photo, or even a carefully chosen book shows care and connection in a way a gift card can’t. Younger generations are picking up on this and bringing creativity back to the art of gift-giving.
11. Enjoying A Family Dinner
Boomers knew the value of gathering around the table for a family meal. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about catching up, sharing stories, and feeling connected. With busy schedules and takeout dominating life for so long, people are realizing how important it is to slow down and share meals with loved ones again.
12. Sending Holiday Cards
The annual holiday card may have seemed old-fashioned for a while, but Boomers never gave up on this tradition. Now, it’s making a stylish return, with families and friends taking the time to send personalized cards during the festive season. There’s something special about seeing a handwritten note in your mailbox that a group text just can’t replicate.
13. Repairing And Passing Down Furniture
Instead of tossing furniture when it shows wear, Boomers knew how to sand, refinish, and restore it to its former glory. These heirlooms often carried stories and memories that made them irreplaceable. Today’s renewed interest in upcycling and vintage furniture proves that this mindset is more timeless than trendy—and way better for the planet.
14. Unplugging To Truly Relax
Before smartphones ruled the world, Boomers knew how to kick back without constant notifications. Reading a book, going for a walk, or simply sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee were their ways of unwinding. Now, as digital detoxes gain popularity, younger generations are adopting this habit of being present and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.