12 Essential Skills Boomers Have That Are Lost on Gen Z
Baby boomers and Gen Z seem to be on opposite ends of the generational spectrum, and rightly so. There are many differences between the two generations, but one stark difference is the skills gap.
Boomers (born 1946-1964) acquired skills that were crucial in a pre-digital era when technology wasn't as pervasive as it is today. While Gen Z (born 1997-2012) is incredibly adept at navigating the digital landscape, their reliance on technology means they often miss out on practical, hands-on skills that boomers mastered out of necessity.
This shift isn't entirely surprising; after all, technological advancements have made certain tasks much easier. Yet, there's value in preserving these essential skills, as they foster independence, creativity, and resilience. Here are some of the essential skills that Boomers possess that are lost on Gen Z.
1. Navigation Without GPS
Boomers grew up in a time when getting from point A to point B required more than just opening an app. They learned to read paper maps, memorize routes, and rely on landmarks. Navigating without GPS cultivated a strong sense of direction and spatial awareness.
In contrast, many Gen Z individuals have never used a physical map, relying solely on digital navigation tools. While GPS is undeniably convenient, the ability to find one's way without it remains a valuable skill, especially in areas with poor signals or when technology fails.
2. Driving a Stick Shift
Driving a manual transmission vehicle, or a stick shift, is another skill that is slowly disappearing in the United States. Less than 2% of new cars on the American market each year are manual, illustrating a shift in market demands.
Not many Gen Z drivers learned to drive a stick shift. While automatic cars dominate the market, knowing how to drive a manual can still be advantageous, especially when traveling abroad or driving certain performance vehicles. It's also a fun skill to master and can enhance one's driving capabilities.
3. How to Improvise and Repurpose
Boomers are experts at making do with what they have. Whether it was finding creative solutions to problems or repurposing items around the house, improvisation was a necessary part of daily life before everything was easily on demand. This skill cultivated creativity and resourcefulness.
Gen Z, with access to instant solutions and a plethora of online resources, may not always develop the same level of improvisational skills. Encouraging them to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions can help build resilience and adaptability. Good improvising skills will come in handy when you're a few dollars short or in a creative pinch.
4. Fixing Things
From leaky faucets to broken appliances, boomers often tackled household repairs themselves. This hands-on experience saved money and instilled a sense of accomplishment and practical knowledge.
While Gen Z can easily find tutorials online, the inclination to fix things themselves isn't as prevalent. Research shows that they are the least handy generation of all. Encouraging DIY repairs can empower them with valuable skills and reduce reliance on professional services, promoting a more self-sufficient mindset.
5. How to Save
Boomers grew up with a strong emphasis on saving money. Most understood the importance of financial prudence, whether through frugality, budgeting, or couponing.
There's a rampant consumer-driven culture, and Gen Z may not always prioritize saving. Studies show that Gen-Z may be having the hardest times financially. While the economic landscape has changed over the decades, teaching them the fundamentals of budgeting, saving, and financial planning can pave the way for long-term stability and success.
6. Sewing
Sewing was a common skill among boomers, who often mended their own clothes or created custom garments. It was a practical and creative way to extend the life of clothing and express personal style.
Today, fast fashion dominates, and many Gen Z individuals lack basic sewing skills. Teaching sewing can promote sustainability, reduce waste, and provide a creative outlet. It's a valuable life skill that can save money and boost independence.
7. Research
Before the internet, boomers relied on libraries, encyclopedias, and other physical sources for research. This developed critical thinking, discernment, and the ability to evaluate the credibility of information.
Ask Gen Z to conduct research today, and they'll most likely get an AI tool to do it for them. Gen Z, while adept at using digital sources, may not always employ rigorous research methods. Encouraging thorough research practices can help them become more informed and discerning consumers of information, especially in an age of misinformation.
8. Talking to Each Other
Boomers grew up in a time when face-to-face communication was the norm. They learned the importance of eye contact, body language, and listening skills. These interpersonal skills are crucial for building relationships and effective communication.
Research shows that Gen Z, with their heavy reliance on digital communication, lacks the same level of interpersonal skills. Encouraging more in-person interactions and teaching the nuances of effective communication can help them build stronger, more meaningful connections.
9. Cooking from Scratch
Boomers often learned to cook from a young age, gaining essential kitchen skills that allowed them to prepare nutritious meals from scratch. Knowing how to cook is not just about making food; it involves understanding ingredients, following recipes, and developing techniques that ensure delicious and healthy eating.
While over half of Gen Z likes to cook, they are looking for foods that are more convenient. The prevalence of ready-made meals and food delivery services is shifting how food is prepped.
10. Finding a Date Offline
Boomers predominantly met potential partners through personal interactions, such as social gatherings, work, community events, or being introduced by mutual friends. These face-to-face encounters helped develop genuine connections and allowed individuals to see each other's body language and social cues.
Gen Z had the internet from birth, and online dating has been the norm. Although research shows this trend is now changing, younger generations have been heavily reliant on dating apps. Encouraging young people to engage in activities that interest them, attend events, or join clubs can create opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.
11. Basic Car Maintenance
Boomers often learned how to perform basic car maintenance tasks such as changing a tire, checking the oil, and replacing wiper blades. These skills were essential for ensuring vehicle safety and longevity.
Gen Z, on the other hand, may not prioritize these skills due to the convenience of auto service centers and roadside assistance. However, teaching basic car maintenance can empower them to handle minor car troubles independently, potentially saving time and money in emergencies.
12. Writing Letters
There was a time when handwritten letters were a primary form of communication. Boomers often conveyed their thoughts and feelings on paper, a practice that required patience, thoughtfulness, and attention to detail.
Today, digital communication has largely replaced letter writing, and Gen Z may lack this personal touch. Encouraging letter writing can help encourage deeper connections and create lasting, tangible memories. It’s a wonderful way to practice clear and effective writing, and it holds a unique sentimental value that digital messages cannot replicate.
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