You won’t believe the jaw-dropping ways Boomers are leaving Gen Z in the dust—and no one’s talking about it.
Some people think Gen Z is running circles around Baby Boomers. But guess what? In key areas, Boomers are crushing it—and nobody wants to admit it. From work ethic to life skills, there are surprising ways Boomers are outperforming the younger crowd.
Let’s dive into the 12 things Boomers do better (and why it matters).
1. Boomers Know How to Work Hard Without Complaining About It
Say what you want about Boomers, but they grew up in an era where hard work wasn’t optional—it was survival. They didn’t have the luxury of “quiet quitting” or ghosting jobs. Sure, they had tough bosses and no work-from-home perks, but they just got it done. No excuses, no hashtags—just grit.
2. Boomers Are the Masters of Face-to-Face Communication
Let’s be real: texting doesn’t hold a candle to real conversations. Boomers were raised to look people in the eye, shake hands, and actually listen. They don’t need emojis to express themselves; they know how to make a point and build trust with just their words and presence.
3. Boomers Have a Real Grasp on Managing Money Without Apps
No budgeting apps, no online calculators—just good old-fashioned spreadsheets (or even a notebook). Boomers learned to stretch a dollar, save for rainy days, and avoid the debt traps that Gen Z often falls into. They didn’t need fintech to build financial security; they used common sense.
4. Boomers Stay Loyal Instead of Chasing the Next Best Thing
When Boomers commit—to jobs, relationships, or friendships—they mean it. They’re not constantly swiping left or jumping ship for instant gratification. Their loyalty has built careers, lifelong friendships, and marriages that stand the test of time.
5. Boomers Know How to Fix Things Instead of Throwing Them Away
Who needs YouTube tutorials when you’ve got decades of practical knowledge? Boomers grew up in a “repair it, don’t replace it” culture. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a sputtering car engine, they can roll up their sleeves and get it done, saving money and reducing waste.
6. Boomers Can Handle Criticism Without Falling Apart
Let’s face it: Boomers grew up in a tougher world. They learned how to take feedback, whether it came from teachers, bosses, or family. They didn’t need safe spaces or trigger warnings; they turned criticism into motivation to improve.
7. Boomers Are Unmatched When It Comes to Cooking From Scratch
Ever had a meal cooked by a Boomer? Chances are, it was amazing. They don’t rely on DoorDash or meal kits; they know how to whip up comforting, homemade dishes that feed the soul. It’s a skill younger generations are sorely missing.
8. Boomers Have Social Etiquette That’s Practically an Art Form
From writing thank-you notes to RSVPing on time, Boomers were raised to value good manners. They understand the unspoken rules of social interaction, which can open doors and leave lasting impressions. Meanwhile, younger generations struggle to even reply to texts.
9. Boomers Don’t Let Technology Control Their Lives
Sure, they might not be glued to the latest TikTok trends, but Boomers have the upper hand when it comes to tech-life balance. They know when to unplug, live in the moment, and avoid the constant distractions that overwhelm Gen Z.
10. Boomers Have Real Survival Skills That Could Save Their Lives
Can Gen Z start a fire, navigate without GPS, or sew on a button? Probably not. Boomers, on the other hand, were taught these practical survival skills from a young age. They don’t just survive—they thrive when life throws curveballs.
11. Boomers Stay Grounded in the Face of Challenges
Life hasn’t always been easy for Boomers, but they’ve weathered economic downturns, wars, and societal upheaval with resilience. They don’t crumble under pressure; they face adversity head-on and come out stronger.
12. Boomers Value Personal Accountability Over Playing the Victim
If something went wrong, Boomers were taught to own it and fix it, not blame the world. This mindset has helped them navigate life with integrity and independence—qualities that are often lacking in a culture of constant finger-pointing.