As the younger generations endeavor to carve out their unique identities, intriguingly, some aspects of the Baby Boomer era are reorienting. Whether it be the tangible allure of vinyl records or the eco-conscious choice of purchasing secondhand, Millennials and Gen Z are rediscovering value in traditions that shaped the lives of their parents and grandparents. Acknowledging the cyclical nature of culture, we delve into 22 characteristics that are currently experiencing a resurgence of interest among today’s youth.
Home Cooking
Amid the pandemic, home cooking has experienced a significant resurgence, becoming a source of solace for many. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, embrace the culinary wisdom of their Boomer ancestors. Social media is replete with proud displays of young individuals sharing their homemade creations, underscoring a newfound appreciation for the gratification of crafting meals in the comfort of one’s own kitchen during these trying times.
Family Gatherings
The pandemic has accentuated the significance of family bonds, prompting younger generations to invest more effort in coordinating and cherishing family gatherings. These occasions resonate with the robust family traditions that many Boomers grew up holding in high regard. The renewed emphasis on family gatherings reflects a broader societal recognition of the intrinsic value of interpersonal connections and shared experiences, harkening back to the enduring importance of familial ties observed by previous generations.
Vinyl Records
Before the advent of digital streaming, vinyl records were esteemed as the melodic backdrop to the youthful experiences of the Baby Boomer generation. Presently, newer cohorts are drawn to vinyl for its sentimental allure and captivated by its audio’s profound and abundant quality. The resurgence of interest in vinyl is evident in the surging popularity of record stores and the emergence of vinyl-listening parties. Statistical data, such as the 21.7% surge in US vinyl sales reported by The Vinyl Factory and Luminate’s mid-year music industry report forecasting an 18th consecutive annual increase in vinyl sales with a current count of 23.6 million sales in the first half of 2023, further underscores this enduring trend.
Making Soap
According to The New York Times, soap-making once considered a domestic chore, has evolved significantly from an era where soap was exclusively store-bought. Times have changed; now, even the handmade variety is available at grocery stores. Leigh O’Donnell, the Executive Director of Handcrafted Soap & Cosmetic Guild, informed the news outlet that soap-making is experiencing a resurgence as a valuable life skill. The US boasts over 300,000 soap-making businesses, which is steadily increasing, indicating a growing interest in this artisanal craft.
Buying Secondhand
Experiencing a resurgence in interest, thrift shopping is gaining popularity, especially among the younger demographic who prioritize sustainability and the allure of unique fashion discoveries. Vintage stores and online secondhand platforms provide a gateway for this generation to appreciate the value and charm inherent in pre-owned items, echoing the sentiments of the Boomers. According to Online Dasher, an estimated 16–18% of Americans are now engaging in thrift store shopping. In the US alone, the sector boasts 28,849 businesses as of 2023. Projections indicate that the thrift store market is poised to reach $14.2 billion by 2023, aligning with the global secondhand apparel market, which is expected to surge by 98.31% by 2027.
Homeownership
Despite economic challenges posing hurdles to homeownership for many young individuals, the aspiration for it remains resolute. The enduring dream of owning a home, with its connotations of stability and independence, perseveres across generations, aligning with the ideals cherished by Boomers. The desire for a place to call one’s own endures as a shared vision, symbolizing financial achievement and the fulfillment of a longstanding societal and personal ideal passed down through the generational fabric.
Home Beer Brewing
The surge in craft beer popularity has inspired individuals to explore home beer brewing as a personal endeavor. Data from the American Homebrewers Association reveals that over 1.2 million Americans are now incorporating home beer brewing into their skill sets. Notably, there has been a 24-percent uptick in the sale of beginner homebrew equipment kits in the USA. According to The Independent, numerous DIY brewers, initially starting in basements with these kits, have successfully evolved their operations into flourishing businesses, showcasing the entrepreneurial potential embedded in the world of home brewing.
Beekeeping
The practice of beekeeping has witnessed a notable surge in popularity over the past few years, even in urban locales such as Los Angeles and New York City. The growing interest in beekeeping is multifaceted, with individuals expressing diverse motivations, as reported by PBS News Hour Weekend. Some enthusiasts are keen on harvesting their own honey. In contrast, others are driven by the noble goal of contributing to the preservation of crucial bee colonies that play a pivotal role in sustaining agricultural production.
Writing Letters
The art of handwritten letters is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z, who acknowledge the distinct and meaningful nature of this communication. A growing appreciation for the personal touch, effort, and sentimental value is embedded in penning a letter. In an age dominated by digital communication, the return to handwritten correspondence signifies a conscious choice to embrace traditional letters’ unique emotional depth, marking a meaningful shift in how individuals express connection and care.
Community Involvement
In 2023, community involvement has witnessed a notable upswing, marked by increased participation from the younger generation in local charities and causes. The trend indicates a heightened sense of civic engagement among the youth, signifying a positive shift towards active participation in addressing community needs and promoting social well-being. The surge in interest suggests a growing awareness and commitment among the younger demographic to make meaningful contributions to local initiatives, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and community-building.
Knitting and Sewing
Traditional crafts like knitting and sewing are shedding their antiquated image, gaining popularity among the younger demographic. Fueled by a blend of sustainability and creativity, many young individuals are embracing these crafts as a means of self-expression, akin to the pursuits of their Boomer relatives. The resurgence of interest in such timeless handiwork highlights a contemporary appreciation for artisanal skills. It reinforces the enduring appeal of activities that bridge generational gaps and facilitate a connection with heritage and creativity.
Living Off-the-Grid
An increasing number of individuals are choosing to acquire the life skill of living “off-the-grid” or with reduced dependence on local utility companies. However, contemporary off-the-grid living differs significantly from its historical counterparts. The focus is not on forgoing modern amenities such as lighting but on powering homes with sustainable energy sources like solar and battery power. Additionally, there’s a trend towards maximizing the use of rainwater as part of the holistic approach to self-sufficient living in harmony with the environment.
Outdoor Activities
A growing trend among younger generations is the heightened interest in various outdoor activities, ranging from hiking and camping to kayaking. This resurgence is frequently positioned as a deliberate departure from excessive screen time, mirroring the more superficial, tech-free outdoor pursuits that Boomers once relished. The shift towards embracing nature-oriented activities signifies a collective desire among the youth to disconnect from digital interfaces and reconnect with the elemental pleasures of the outdoors, echoing the preferences of previous generations for tech-free leisure.
Face-To-Face Communication
Despite their status as digital natives, Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly emphasizing the significance of face-to-face communication. Whether in social gatherings or professional settings, the subtleties and intimacy inherent in in-person interactions are undergoing a reevaluation and garnering increased appreciation. This shift reflects a nuanced understanding among the younger generations that, despite the prevalence of digital connectivity, the authenticity and depth of face-to-face exchanges hold a unique and irreplaceable value in fostering meaningful connections.
DIY Home Repairs
Once prominent among Boomers, the “do-it-yourself” ethos is experiencing a resurgence in the era of YouTube tutorials. Rather than seeking professional assistance, many young individuals are discovering both satisfaction and cost savings in tackling home repairs independently. The accessibility of online tutorials has empowered this generation to embrace a hands-on approach, reviving the self-reliant spirit of yesteryears and reshaping the dynamics of how home maintenance is approached by a new demographic.
Foraging
Occasionally, there’s no need to cultivate your own food when nature generously provides an array of edible offerings. This rationale drives a resurgence in foraging and discovering wild food sources within one’s local environment. Urban foragers, exemplified by Marie Viljoen, are uncovering edible treasures like spicebush, chokeberries, and field garlic near their New York City homes. Many individuals, like Viljoen, are participating in classes and online studies to acquire the skills to identify and consume locally available wild foods safely.
Personal Responsibility
The resurgence of personal responsibility, notably in financial matters and household management, is a discernible trend. Younger individuals are increasingly attentive to aspects like budgeting, investing, and self-care, aligning with the enduring values advocated by Boomers. This revival of conscientious behavior reflects a collective shift towards a more proactive and mindful approach to personal well-being and responsibilities, echoing the time-honored principles that have long been integral to the fabric of responsible living.
Saving and Investing
An emerging trend shows that Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly cultivating investment-savvy habits, often seeking guidance from Boomer family members with a wealth of financial experience. Integrating retirement funds and stock portfolios into the economic landscape is becoming common among young adults. As reported by Business Insider, Gen Z is entering adulthood, with the oldest members now at 26, completing their education and embarking on careers. With expanding job opportunities, the cohort’s income is rapidly growing, and projections estimate that by 2030, Gen Z’s global income will reach $33 trillion, surpassing what millennials earn annually by 2031.
Skepticism Toward Technology
A discernible shift occurs among younger generations as they grow increasingly mindful of technology’s role in their lives, scrutinizing its impact on mental health, relationships, and society. This critical approach mirrors the skepticism toward rapid technological changes often exhibited by many Boomers. The introspective examination of technology’s influence signifies a collective desire among the youth to navigate the digital landscape with a measured awareness, echoing the cautious sentiments of previous generations towards the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Reading Print Newspapers
Even in the age of online news accessibility, younger generations have a growing appreciation for the tangible experience of perusing a physical newspaper. Print journalism, a longstanding fixture in Boomer households, is attracting a fresh audience that values the depth and distinctive layout of traditional formats. Flipping through pages rekindles a sense of connection with information, demonstrating that, despite digital advancements, the allure of the printed word persists for a new demographic.
Board Games
In contrast to the immersive worlds of video games and virtual reality, there is a notable resurgence in the popularity of board games. The interpersonal interactions and tangible components of board games provide a distinct form of entertainment, evoking the cherished memories of family game nights that Boomers frequently indulged in. This trend signifies a shift towards embracing traditional forms of leisure, highlighting the enduring appeal of face-to-face interactions and the tangible, tactile experience of board gaming in the digital age.
Gardening
A pursuit once predominantly embraced by the Boomer generation, gardening is now flourishing as a favored pastime among Millennials and Gen Z. It serves as a dual-purpose activity, offering relaxation and a means to establish a connection with nature. Urban gardening, in particular, has captivated the interest of many young enthusiasts, who actively exchange tips and homegrown produce within their communities, further fostering a sense of communal engagement and sustainable living.
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