What goes around comes around, and nowhere is that more evident than in the ever-shifting sands of lifestyle trends. For years, the habits of the Baby Boomer generation might have been seen as quaint, perhaps even a little old-fashioned, by younger demographics. But lo and behold, a funny thing is happening: many of those “boomer” ways are making a grand comeback, proving that sometimes, the old ways are the best.
This isn’t merely about nostalgia; it’s a reflection of a more profound societal yearning for authenticity, sustainability, and perhaps a simpler pace of life. From the kitchen to the living room, and even out in the garden, habits once considered dated are enjoying a renaissance. It seems the younger generations are rediscovering the wisdom and practicality that their grandparents cherished. Let’s explore 12 boomer habits that are making a comeback.
Canning And Food Preservation
Grandma’s pantry, stocked with rows of preserved fruits and vegetables, seemed like a relic from another era. However, canning, pickling, and dehydrating are gaining traction once again. As interest in reducing food waste and knowing where your food comes from grows, people are embracing these traditional tips to extend the shelf life of their harvest or bulk purchases.
Home Cooking And Baking
Remember a time when home-cooked meals were the norm, always made from scratch? That’s back in a big way, with rising costs of eating out and a growing interest in healthy food. The shift towards wellness and controlling what goes into their bodies has seen a surge in interest in everything related to it. In 2020, most U.S. households prepared at least one hot meal at home daily, indicating a sustained interest in cooking at home.
Thrifting And Vintage Fashion
Gone are the days when secondhand was synonymous with second-best. Thrifting has experienced a surge in popularity, driven by both environmental consciousness and a desire for unique fashion finds. Younger generations are flocking to thrift stores, vintage shops, and online resale platforms to discover one-of-a-kind pieces, giving clothes a second life. The global secondhand apparel market is projected to reach approximately $125 billion by 2034. This embrace of pre-loved items speaks volumes about a changing consumer lifestyle.
Gardening And Growing Your Food
The joy of putting your hands in the soil and growing your food is no longer just for retirees. Community gardens are flourishing, and backyard vegetable patches are sprouting up everywhere. People are finding inspiration and stress relief in cultivating their produce, leading to fresher, healthier food. Community gardens have a positive impact on neighborhood security, and every $1 invested in a community garden yields around $6 worth of produce, as highlighted by the Ohio Department of Health.
Board Games And Analog Entertainment
In a world saturated with screens, the tactile pleasure of board games is making a strong comeback. Family game nights, once a classic boomer pastime, are now a terrific way to disconnect and connect. The global tabletop games market was valued at USD 19 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 51.84 billion by 2034, according to The Brainy Insights. This return to analog fun offers a refreshing break from digital distractions.
Walking For Exercise And Errands
Before fancy gyms and fitness trackers dominated the health scene, people walked. Whether it was for exercise, to visit a friend, or to grab groceries, walking was a fundamental part of daily life. Now, with a renewed focus on accessible wellness and reducing carbon footprints, walking is back in vogue. It’s a simple, free way to stay healthy, explore your neighborhood, and even boost your mood. Research from the Better Health Channel suggests that just 30 minutes of brisk walking most days can significantly improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.
DIY Home Improvement And Decor
Before Pinterest boards and professional stylists, people rolled up their sleeves and handled home improvement and home decor themselves. From painting walls to building shelves, a do-it-yourself attitude was prevalent. This hands-on approach to productivity is returning, driven by budget consciousness, a desire for personalization, and the satisfaction that comes with a job well done.
Repair Culture
Throwing something away just because it’s broken? Not anymore. The boomer habit of fixing things rather than replacing them is making a comeback with a vengeance. From appliances to clothing to furniture, people are seeking more than just buying new; they’re learning to mend, patch, and repair. Community repair initiatives, such as Repair Cafés, successfully repair 53% of items brought in, reducing waste and extending product life, as reported by the Open Repair Alliance.
Financial Prudence And Saving
Boomers often grew up with a strong emphasis on saving money, living within their means, and avoiding debt. While credit cards have become ubiquitous, a new generation is rediscovering the power of disciplined financial management. Budgeting, saving for major purchases, and building an emergency fund are becoming aspirational goals for many young adults seeking more than just instant gratification.
Community Engagement
Before digital bubbles and online relationships, community was built through face-to-face interactions, such as neighborhood gatherings, local clubs, and civic participation. This return to grassroots connection is seeing a resurgence, with people valuing real-world relationships and local support networks. Whether it’s volunteering, joining a local book club, or simply chatting with neighbors, the importance of community is gaining motivation.
Slowing Down And Simple Pleasures
The frantic pace of modern life has left many craving the slower, more deliberate rhythms of previous generations. This includes enjoying simple pleasures, such as reading a physical book, taking a leisurely Sunday drive, or having long, unhurried conversations. It’s a re-evaluation of lifestyle priorities, focusing on presence and genuine enjoyment over constant activity and distraction. The global wellness economy, encompassing segments related to mindfulness and slower living, is projected to reach $8.5 trillion by 2027, indicating a strong trend toward prioritizing peace and personal wellness.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025—No Experience Needed
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025
I used to think investing was something you did after you were already rich. Like, you needed $10,000 in a suit pocket and a guy named Chad at some fancy firm who knew how to “diversify your portfolio.” Meanwhile, I was just trying to figure out how to stretch $43 to payday.
But a lot has changed. And fast. In 2025, building wealth doesn’t require a finance degree—or even a lot of money. The tools are simpler. The entry points are lower. And believe it or not, total beginners are stacking wins just by starting small and staying consistent.
Click here and let’s break down how.
5 Easy Steps to Change Any Habit
5 Easy Steps to Change Any Habit
We all click on them with the hope that just THIS time the secret to changing a bad habit or adopting a healthy one will be revealed and we’ll finally be able to stick to that diet, stop that one or ten things that might in the moment make us feel temporarily good but really just make us fat, unhealthy, sad, mad or just frustrated with ourselves.
