12 Boomer Life Skills That Gen Z Is Desperately Trying To Learn Through TikTok

In today’s fast-paced digital world, Gen Z is redefining the way we learn traditional skills. With TikTok at the forefront, these young digital natives are turning to the platform to master the life skills that the Boomer generation took for granted.

From sewing on a button to maintaining a household budget, these skills are making a comeback, guided by short, engaging videos. This intersection of generations is not just about reviving old practices but also about creating a unique blend of past and present wisdom. Let’s explore 12 Boomer life skills that Gen Z is embracing wholeheartedly.

1. Sewing a Button

Sewing a button might seem like a minor task, but it’s a vital skill. Many in Gen Z are turning to TikTok to learn this craft. The gentle rhythm of needle and thread through fabric is almost meditative, connecting them with a simpler time. Tutorials often showcase creative tips for matching thread colors or using the right stitch technique, making it accessible for beginners. This renewed interest reflects a desire for self-sufficiency and creativity. Whether fixing a favorite jacket or upcycling thrift store finds, sewing brings a sense of accomplishment and personal style enhancement.

2. Balancing a Checkbook

Balancing a checkbook might sound outdated, yet it’s a practical skill resurging in popularity. TikTok creators are breaking it down with humor and clarity, making it appealing to Gen Z’s financial consciousness. Understanding how to track expenses and manage funds is empowering. It instills a sense of responsibility and independence, especially in an era of digital payments. With colorful spreadsheets and quirky mnemonics, influencers are transforming this tedious task into an engaging challenge. What seemed like a mundane chore now offers a creative way to stay financially savvy.

3. Cooking from Scratch

Cooking from scratch is an art being revived through TikTok. Gen Z is diving into recipes passed down through generations, savoring the aroma of fresh herbs and sizzling pans. Videos capture the joy of transforming raw ingredients into delicious meals, often emphasizing the cultural heritage behind beloved dishes. This culinary journey is about more than just nourishment; it’s a celebration of tradition and taste. With each chop and stir, young cooks are embracing mindfulness and creativity in the kitchen, connecting with family roots while exploring new flavors.

4. Budgeting Basics

Budgeting may seem daunting, but TikTok has made it approachable. Gen Z is learning to allocate funds efficiently, using visual tools like pie charts and bullet journals. Influencers break down financial concepts into easy steps, often sharing personal success stories and tips. This practical skill empowers young adults to achieve financial goals, whether saving for a dream vacation or managing student loans. The blend of creativity and practicality in these tutorials resonates with Gen Z’s desire for independence and innovation. Budgeting is more than a skill; it’s a lifestyle choice.

5. Gardening for Beginners

Gardening offers a therapeutic escape from urban hustle, and TikTok is cultivating a new generation of green thumbs. Young people are embracing the tranquility of growing their own plants, from herbs on a windowsill to lush vegetables in backyard plots. The vibrant colors of blooming flowers and the earthy scent of soil provide sensory delight. Tutorials offer step-by-step guidance, making gardening accessible to novices. This hobby fosters patience, environmental awareness, and a sense of achievement. In a digital age, connecting with nature brings balance and joy to Gen Z’s bustling lives.

6. Writing Letters by Hand

In an era dominated by digital communication, handwritten letters are making a nostalgic comeback. Gen Z is discovering the charm of personal, thoughtful expressions through TikTok tutorials. The act of putting pen to paper is both an art and a gesture of sincerity. With calligraphy tips and creative letter-folding techniques, influencers inspire a new wave of correspondence. This revival not only enhances communication skills but also fosters meaningful connections. Writing by hand provides a personal touch that digital messages often lack, bridging generational gaps with heartfelt words.

7. Repairing Clothes

Repairing clothes is a sustainable trend gaining traction on TikTok. Young people are learning to mend their favorite garments, embracing a zero-waste lifestyle. Videos showcase patching techniques and creative embroidery, turning holes into unique fashion statements. This skill promotes environmental consciousness and reduces reliance on fast fashion. The satisfaction of reviving a beloved piece of clothing is immense. As they stitch and embroider, Gen Z finds empowerment in self-sufficiency. Repairing clothes merges practicality with artistic flair, transforming old into new with a personal touch.

8. Navigating with Paper Maps

In a world of GPS and smartphones, paper maps seem relics of the past. Yet, TikTok is reviving this skill, showing Gen Z the art of navigation without screens. Holding a map brings a tactile experience, unfolding adventures on paper. Creators share tips on reading topographical lines and compass use, blending practicality with exploration. Navigating with maps fosters spatial awareness and problem-solving, often leading to serendipitous discoveries. This analog skill offers a refreshing break from digital dependency, enriching travel experiences with a touch of nostalgia and adventure.

9. Handwriting Analysis

Handwriting analysis is a quirky skill gaining popularity on TikTok. Gen Z is intrigued by the mysteries hidden in loops and strokes. This art blends psychology with creativity, as influencers explore personality traits through penmanship. Tutorials often include fun exercises to decipher handwriting styles, sparking curiosity and self-discovery. Whether analyzing their own or friends’ handwriting, young adults find joy in this introspective hobby. It’s a reminder of the individuality expressed in every handwritten note, offering insights into character and mood. This skill celebrates the uniqueness of personal expression.

10. Vintage Hairstyling

Vintage hairstyling is an art form being revived by Gen Z on TikTok. Inspired by classic Hollywood glam, young people are learning to create elegant curls and waves. Tutorials guide them through retro techniques using hair rollers and setting sprays. This skill offers a playful nod to past eras while allowing for modern interpretations. Styling hair becomes a creative outlet, blending nostalgic charm with contemporary flair. With each twist and pin, Gen Z is embracing individuality and cultural history. The allure of vintage hairstyles lies in their timeless beauty and endless adaptability.

11. Cursive Writing

Cursive writing, with its fluid grace, is finding new fans among Gen Z on TikTok. This elegant script is more than just penmanship; it’s an art of expression. Tutorials offer guidance on forming letters and connecting strokes, evoking a sense of nostalgia. With each swirl of the pen, writers discover the joy of creating aesthetically pleasing text. Practicing cursive enhances fine motor skills and concentration, providing a meditative escape from screens. This revival celebrates the beauty of handwriting, linking past traditions with modern creativity in a digital world.

12. Making Homemade Jam

Making homemade jam is a sweet tradition coming alive on TikTok. Gen Z is savoring the process of turning fresh fruits into delightful preserves. The ritual of simmering fruit and sugar in a pot fills kitchens with irresistible aromas. Videos guide viewers through recipes, offering variations and canning tips. This skill is more than culinary; it’s about preserving flavors and memories. Sharing homemade jam with friends and family brings joy and connection. The simple pleasure of spreading jam on toast becomes a celebration of craftsmanship and comfort in everyday life.