12 Childhood Skills Boomers Picked Up That Make Retirement Easier Today
We often joke about how the older generation struggles to rotate a PDF, but they possess a toolkit of analog skills that makes modern retirement look like a breeze. My dad recently fixed his washing machine with nothing but a wrench and a stubborn attitude, saving himself $200 in the process. I watched in awe while I stood there Googling “how to boil water.” Boomers rely on ingrained habits from a scrappier childhood that prepared them for the long haul.
Retirement requires more than just a 401(k); it demands resilience and adaptability. A 2024 study by the National Council on Aging reveals that financial security and social connection are the top concerns for retirees. Interestingly, the specific skills Boomers learned as kids directly address these issues. They built a foundation of self-reliance that modern conveniences often erode. Here are the skills that give them the upper hand.
Saving Every Penny
Boomers learned early on that saving was key, whether it was a portion of their allowance or money earned from a summer job. This habit has stayed with them, helping them manage their finances even when living on a fixed income. This financial discipline means Boomers can navigate retirement with confidence, often living well below their means while still enjoying a comfortable life.
Cooking from Scratch
Back in the day, “fast food” wasn’t a quick fix; it was the occasional treat. Instead, Boomers grew up cooking at home, which led to healthier eating and a knack for stretching food budgets.
This childhood skill is a major bonus in retirement when dining out can get pricey. Cooking from scratch not only saves money but also promotes a healthier lifestyle. That’s two major wins in the golden years. Who’s got time for expensive frozen meals? Not Boomers!
Fixing Household Items
From fixing a leaky faucet to patching up a torn shirt, Boomers didn’t always wait for a professional to show up. Fixing things themselves was a point of pride, and it still is today. The ability to repair basic household items means fewer repair bills and more time spent actually enjoying life.
That’s a big deal when you’re on a fixed income. So, why spend money on a plumber when you can watch a few YouTube videos and handle it yourself? Boomers sure don’t mind getting their hands dirty.
Planning for the Future
Boomers didn’t just dream about having their own bikes or video games; they planned for them. Setting clear goals, whether it was for a summer job or a new toy, was a lesson learned early on.
That forward-thinking mindset comes in handy in retirement, whether it’s for downsizing a home or planning future travel. After all, isn’t retirement just another stage of life that deserves some serious planning?
Doing Chores Consistently
Doing the dishes, mowing the lawn, or taking out the trash were regular parts of growing up. These tasks taught Boomers the importance of routine and responsibility, habits that transition smoothly into a happy retirement.
Even though there’s no boss anymore, keeping a consistent daily schedule brings a sense of purpose and structure to life. And let’s be real: the only thing worse than a day without chores is the endless list of tasks that pile up when they’re ignored. Boomers are no strangers to that reality.
Sewing and Mending
Many Boomers learned to sew or mend clothes as kids. Whether it was patching a torn pair of jeans or creating a new outfit from old fabric, the ability to repair clothing saved both money and frustration. And in today’s world, where fast fashion is everywhere, this skill still holds value.
Boomers know how to stretch a dollar, which makes retirement budgets a little easier to handle. Need a button sewn back on? Boomers have it covered.
Budgeting Pocket Money
Even if their allowances were small, Boomers learned to budget early on. Managing pocket money taught delayed gratification, prioritizing wants over needs, and making thoughtful spending choices. These early lessons were valuable and still pay off in retirement, when every penny counts.
Instead of splurging on things that aren’t essential, Boomers are masters at saving and investing wisely, ensuring they have enough for the future. After all, it’s hard to teach an old dog new spending habits when they’ve been budgeting since they were 6.
Making Small Talk
Ever wonder how Boomers can strike up a conversation with just about anyone? It’s because they grew up making small talk with neighbors, shopkeepers, and just about anyone else they crossed paths with.
In retirement, this translates into stronger social bonds and better communication skills, which can combat feelings of loneliness or isolation. So, whether it’s chatting with the mailman or getting to know new neighbors, Boomers know how to keep those relationships going.
Reading Social Cues
Boomers didn’t grow up with emojis to convey their feelings; they had to read social cues and body language. This skill, developed over years of face-to-face interaction, helps them build smoother relationships.
In retirement, these interpersonal skills help with everything from negotiating the best deals to navigating family dynamics. Ever wondered why Boomers just get people? It’s all in the eye contact and the subtle art of conversation.
Making Phone Calls
Before texting was a thing, Boomers learned the art of the phone call. They mastered phone etiquette long before emojis and voice notes came into play, and this skill helps them stay connected with friends and family today.
It also means they can easily manage appointments and services without feeling overwhelmed by technology. So, when it comes to scheduling a doctor’s appointment or catching up with loved ones, Boomers are still dialing with ease.
Assessing Risks and Making Decisions
Making decisions without constant supervision was a big part of growing up. Boomers learned to assess risks and make their own choices. Whether it was deciding which route to take home or picking the right summer job, these early experiences fostered independence.
Now, in retirement, they can confidently make decisions about things like healthcare options or whether to sell the family home. Decision-making? Boomers got this.
Advocating for Themselves
From negotiating with siblings over who gets the last cookie to standing up for themselves in class, Boomers learned how to advocate for themselves from a young age. This translates to navigating the often complicated healthcare and financial systems in retirement.
Boomers know how to make their voices heard and fight for what’s right, whether it’s challenging a healthcare bill or asking for a better deal. They’ve been standing up for themselves for decades, and they’re not about to stop now.
Disclaimer- This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
Disclosure: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.
20 Odd American Traditions That Confuse the Rest of the World
20 Odd American Traditions That Confuse the Rest of the World
It’s no surprise that cultures worldwide have their own unique customs and traditions, but some of America’s most beloved habits can seem downright strange to outsiders.
Many American traditions may seem odd or even bizarre to people from other countries. Here are twenty of the strangest American traditions that confuse the rest of the world.
20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
If you’ve found yourself here, it’s likely because you’re on a noble quest for the worst of the worst—the crème de la crème of the most underwhelming and downright disappointing tourist traps America offers. Maybe you’re looking to avoid common pitfalls, or perhaps just a connoisseur of the hilariously bad.
Whatever the reason, here is a list that’s sure to entertain, if not educate. Hold onto the hats and explore the ranking, in sequential order, of the 20 worst American tourist attractions.
