Uncool Things That Are About to Be Cool Again

Rediscovering Trends That Are Making a Comeback

Here's the thing: coolness is cyclical. What once looked hopelessly outdated suddenly feels fresh, and often, it’s because people rediscover the genuine value of these things. From the feel of a real book to the idea of “just one job,” here’s a list of what’s coming back in style and why it’s got people’s attention.

Reading Physical Books

E-books are convenient, sure, but physical books? They’ve got soul. It’s about the smell of old paper, the satisfaction of turning a page, and the mini-libraries people build around them. They’re a break from screens and an intentional way to unwind. There’s also something to be said for the permanence of a book; once you own it, it’s yours in a way digital files just aren’t.

Tip: Start with just a small shelf of your favorites. Swap them with friends or pick up unique finds at second-hand shops.

Cooking Your Own Food

Home-cooked meals are making a comeback, especially as the cost of eating out continues to rise. People are rediscovering the satisfaction of cooking something themselves. Not only is it healthier, but it also brings an element of control over ingredients. Plus, there's something unique about inviting friends over for a homemade dinner — it’s social, personal, and a rare form of hospitality that’s worth celebrating.

Personally, I’ve been cooking at home for years, mainly for health. Knowing exactly what’s in your food, controlling the ingredients, and making it just the way you like — nothing beats that. These days, I see people getting genuinely excited about cooking their own meals, trying new recipes, and spending time in the kitchen. It’s like cooking is no longer just a task but something people are proud to do. I think the trend toward home-cooked meals says something about how much we’re craving real, nourishing experiences.

Tip: Try one new recipe each week. It’ll keep things interesting, build your cooking skills, and maybe even impress a few guests.

Owning a Pet

More than ever, people crave real companionship, and pets offer that unconditionally. Whether it's the calm of a cat or the energy of a dog, pets are becoming a cherished part of daily life again. They’re a reason to take breaks, go for walks, and appreciate the simple joys. And let’s face it: with so many people feeling isolated, pets provide a way to avoid that screen-addicted, lonely trap.

Tip: Consider adopting from a shelter. Shelters are full of loyal pets waiting for a second chance.

Reading Content That’s Not AI-Generated

In a sea of AI-written blogs, the ones with real human voices stand out. People are starting to see through the polished but lifeless content generated by algorithms. There’s a resurgence of interest in real authors, unique insights, and storytelling that feels, well, human. Readers want authenticity — something only human writers can deliver.

Tip: When you’re looking for genuine content, look for authors who share personal stories, or check out independent publishers and newsletters.

Going to Libraries

Libraries aren’t just for books; they’re community hubs. Now, as cities get busier, libraries offer a quiet refuge. They have a range of resources from free events to computer access, and a nostalgia for the quieter, screen-free moments. People are finding a simple joy in getting out of the house to read or study in a quiet, collective space. Plus, it’s free!

When I think of libraries, I remember spending hours in the U.S. Embassy Library, diving into books and occasionally catching a classic Hollywood movie screening. Libraries were my go-to space to unplug, to feel a bit of peace and quiet away from everything. I’m thrilled to see people finding their way back to these spaces. Libraries are more than just book storage; they’re community hubs. It’s nice to think that while so much has gone digital, libraries are still here, giving people a place to think, learn, and just be.

Tip: Check out the events section at your local library — from book clubs to movie nights, there’s often more going on than you think.

Attending Live Theater Performances

The power of live performance can’t be overstated. In a world where everything’s on-demand, there’s something rare about a performance you can only see once. Theater and concerts let us see creativity in its rawest form, mistakes and all. There’s an energy in the crowd, a shared experience, and it’s truly immersive in a way no screen can match.

Back when I had more time, I used to go to the theater a lot. These days, it’s more of a special occasion thing, but I’m seeing that the magic of live performances is really pulling people back. I remember catching plays at Gurukul, Mandala, and Sarwanam. Watching brilliant actors like Arpan Thapa, Sushil Pokharel, Diya Maskey, and Dayahang Rai on the stage at Mandala — that kind of energy just doesn’t compare to screen acting. There’s something intimate about seeing a story unfold in real time with real people who are right there. I’m glad others are discovering or rediscovering this — it’s an experience worth keeping alive.

Tip: Start with smaller, local performances — they’re often cheaper, and you’ll likely end up close to the action.

Wearing Vintage Clothing

Vintage clothing isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s sustainable. People are seeing the value in reusing well-made clothes over buying cheap, fast fashion. Plus, vintage items have character. Instead of looking like everyone else, you can have something unique, often at a fraction of the price. A worn leather jacket or a retro dress says something about the wearer — a touch of character that’s hard to fake.

I’ve still got a few T-shirts that make me smile every time I see them. One has a Death Note print, another has Avril Lavigne’s face plastered on it from when her songs were a constant on my playlists. They might look worn now, but they carry memories of past times and favorite songs, and I love that they’re uniquely mine. Converse shoes were just like that — a trend then, still a trend now, and a style that never goes out of fashion. Vintage clothing isn’t just about style — it’s a little window into who you were at a certain time.

Tip: Thrift stores, online resale apps, or even raiding family wardrobes are great ways to start your vintage collection.

Keeping Vintage Tech (e.g., First iPod)

Remember when tech was simpler? Vintage gadgets are now cool again, partly because of the nostalgia factor and partly because they serve a single, clear purpose. First-gen iPods, Game Boys, or even typewriters have become collectible items. They’re proof of how fast things change and serve as a reminder of a time when devices weren’t tracking our every move.

I still have my first-gen iPod, and yeah, it’s a little clunky compared to today’s sleek gadgets, but that’s part of its charm. It reminds me of the era when every song felt carefully chosen. There’s a feeling that this little device holds a piece of who I was back then. Holding onto it, for me, is like holding onto a piece of tech history — a time capsule of my favorite tracks, saved playlists, and memories of when music wasn’t just streamed but carefully curated.

Tip: If you have vintage tech, keep it safe. Even if it’s a bit clunky, it might just become your favorite new (old) gadget.

Having a Job

With so many people freelancing or getting into the gig economy, a traditional job suddenly seems stable. The steady paycheck, clear boundaries, and benefits of a traditional role have newfound appeal. Layoffs and financial unpredictability also make the consistent nature of a regular job feel refreshing — a shift back to structure in an unstructured world.

Tip: Use your role to learn as much as you can. Stability doesn’t mean stagnation — it’s a springboard for skills that can help in any field.

Companies Going 24-Hour with Different Shifts

The classic 9-to-5 isn’t the only option anymore. As companies increasingly operate around the clock to meet global demand, the 24-hour shift is making a comeback. Once seen as grueling, this schedule now offers flexibility for those who prefer working outside traditional hours.

Whether it’s for personal convenience, better work-life balance, or simply avoiding peak commute times, “odd hours” are becoming a practical and even desirable choice. Today, people are rethinking the 24-hour shift—not as a burden, but as a way to fit work around life, not the other way around.

Having Your Own Product or Physical Business

With e-commerce and online startups everywhere, owning a physical business or selling tangible products has become a powerful differentiator. In an era where the SEO industry is in constant flux, especially with Google grappling with AI-driven content, search results are more chaotic than ever.

Even legitimate sites are struggling to maintain visibility as AI-generated content floods the internet. This is where a physical business offers an edge — people can connect with you directly, and the experience is real and grounded. Whether it’s a coffee shop, a local bookstore, or a business built on handcrafted goods, having a physical presence lets you bypass the digital noise and create an authentic connection with your customers.

Treating Employees Like Machines to Chase Money

In some industries, the pressure to maximize profit is leading to an unfortunate trend of treating employees as “machines”. Companies are pushing people hard, with minimal breaks and massive workloads. This trend has brought a growing conversation around work-life balance, employee rights, and the importance of fair treatment.

Investing in Fixed Deposits

In a volatile market, fixed deposits (FDs) are reassuringly old-school. They offer security and a predictable return, something rare with stocks or cryptocurrency. People are revisiting the idea of steady, long-term growth. FDs may not be flashy, but they’re reliable, and right now, that’s appealing.

Tip: Diversify your investments, but consider FDs as a stable part of your portfolio, especially in uncertain financial times.

Going to College

It’s true that now more people are embracing creative paths, and art is finally being seen as a legitimate career. But I still believe in the importance of a solid academic degree. There’s something about structured education, not just for the knowledge but for the discipline, the experiences, and the connections you make. College isn’t just about studying; it’s about growing up, finding out who you are, and laying a strong foundation for the future.

Listening to Your Parents

Its debatable. In a time when everyone’s scrolling through endless streams of advice from strangers, it’s refreshing to see kids actually listening to their parents. We have so much content, so many voices out there, that it’s easy to get lost. Sometimes, though, the simplest truths come from home. I see younger people taking time to listen to family wisdom, and it’s a shift I genuinely appreciate. Parents may not know everything, but they’ve lived through a lot, and their perspective — even if you don’t agree with it all — is usually worth hearing.

Talking in Native Language

There was a time when speaking in your native language felt out of place or even looked down upon, especially in certain professional or social circles. But now? Native languages are making a resurgence.

People are recognizing the richness, heritage, and personal connection that comes with speaking their native tongue. It’s a way to honor roots, keep cultural ties strong, and even stand out in a world leaning toward uniformity.

Migrating to the Village from the City

A few years ago, the idea of moving back to a rural village might’ve sounded backward, but now villages are calling people back. After living with the intensity of city life, people are finding value in simpler, quieter environments where the pace is slower, and community ties are stronger. Plus, with remote work more common, living outside the city has become a practical choice for a better quality of life.

Engineering Students Doing MBAs

Once upon a time, pursuing an MBA as an engineering graduate was rare, almost like straying from a "pure" technical path. But now, engineering students see MBAs as a career boost. With businesses needing leaders who understand both tech and strategy, this blend of skills has made the engineer-MBA combo highly desirable.

Diverting to Handcrafted Art and Painting from AI Generation

As AI-generated art floods digital spaces, handcrafted creations are making a strong comeback. People crave the imperfections and unique touch that only human hands can bring. There’s something about the labor of love, the craftsmanship, and the originality of handmade items that AI just can’t replicate.

Being Religious and Showing Devotion

Religion and spirituality are finding new relevance. With so many people feeling isolated or lost, faith is offering comfort and a sense of belonging. People are sharing religious beliefs openly, visiting temples, and proudly embracing spirituality.

ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) and Pashupatinath Temple are particularly popular, with people posting photos of their visits or sharing moments of devotion online. It's a shift that shows pride in one’s beliefs, offering a way for people to reconnect with their roots and find peace in practices that feel timeless.

Playing Cards (and UNO!)

Once seen as something only grandparents did, playing cards and classic games like UNO are making a cool comeback. People are rediscovering the fun of card games — whether it’s poker nights, family gatherings, or just a casual round of UNO with friends. These games are social, simple, and a break from screen time. UNO especially has taken off as an easy-to-learn, quick-to-play option that brings out everyone’s competitive side. Card games like these are a great way to unwind, laugh, and actually connect with the people around you.

Sticking to One Partner

In a time where dating apps and casual relationships seemed to take over, commitment and long-term relationships are back in style. People are starting to value the depth and stability of sticking with one partner. With a shift back to genuine connection, building a life together has become cool again in a society that often prizes novelty. There was a time when Tinder and Bumble were very popular among teenagers in Nepal; however, this trend has shifted recently.

Note: This is a generalized perspective based on my observations among friends, colleagues, and others. The trends of Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha could differ significantly, so please don’t take it personally.

Investing in Real Relationships and Friendships

Real-life relationships had started to feel secondary in an age of social media. But now, genuine friendships and connections are back in the spotlight. People are realizing that virtual connections can’t replace real-life companionship, shared memories, and the support of real friends.

Note: This is a generalized perspective based on my observations among friends, colleagues, and others. The trends of Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha could differ significantly, so please don’t take it personally.

Having Kids

While many people delay or avoid having kids, parenthood is regaining its appeal. There’s a growing realization that having children brings joy, purpose, and family continuity. In a world increasingly focused on individual success, more people are coming around to the idea that raising a family is deeply rewarding.

Nepal's birth rate in 2023 was 18.377 births per 1,000 people, reflecting a 1.75% decrease compared to 2022. In 2022, the birth rate stood at 18.705 births per 1,000 people, marking a 1.73% decline from 2021. The birth rate in 2021 was 19.034 births per 1,000 people, representing a 1.69% drop from 2020.

Avoiding Mobile While Eating

It used to be common to scroll through your phone during meals, but people are seeing the value in mindful eating and being present. Eating without the distraction of screens is becoming a small act of self-care and a way to actually connect with the people around you. Nowadays, we live in an AI-driven world filled with information overload. From text, audio, and images to faceless videos and AI avatars, technology can create virtually anything. However, this constant barrage of information has left people feeling overwhelmed. As a result, many are now finding greater joy in spending time with family and friends rather than being glued to their devices.

Switching from TikTok to Instagram Reels

TikTok was the cool kid on the block, but lately, Instagram Reels has been stealing the show. It’s a platform where creators can reach diverse audiences, and the slightly slower pace appeals to those who want to watch (and create) quality content without the frenetic pace TikTok is known for. Instagram, once primarily a photo-sharing platform, now feels somewhat nostalgic. Over time, it evolved from IGTV to Reels, and the sheer volume of Reels people create and consume has skyrocketed. While TikTok remains popular, Instagram Reels have become the new normal in social media trends.

Outdated Scams Gaining More Popularity

It’s ironic, but old-school scams like pyramid schemes or phishing emails are popping up again. With new generations entering the online world, scammers have started recycling old tactics — and surprisingly, they still work. People are getting caught off guard by schemes that once seemed outdated.

Adding fuel to the fire is the rise of misleading marketing around "shortcut courses," especially in areas like SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Promises like "Master SEO in 10 Days," or "Learn SEO in 5 Days" have flooded the internet. These schemes lure people with the promise of instant expertise or wealth, but the reality is far from it. Instead of teaching valuable skills, many of these so-called educators are simply milking the system by selling the courses themselves.

While awareness about such scams has grown as of 2024, these gimmicks continue to thrive, spreading the idea that shortcuts exist for everything—be it money, career skills, or personal development. Unfortunately, the allure of quick success keeps drawing people in, perpetuating the cycle.

People Getting Popular for Not-So-Great Reasons

The idea of “bad publicity is still publicity” has reached new heights, as people are gaining fame for reasons that aren’t exactly admirable. From controversy to outrageous stunts, it seems that if it grabs attention, it works. Not everyone may approve, but these personalities are undeniably gaining traction. Such trends had quieted down for a while—remember the times of Sajin Maharjan, Trishna Budathoki, and Joti Magar? Now, similar trends are making a comeback.

God Complex Among People

With social media and influencer culture, the “God complex” is becoming all too common. People are starting to see themselves as brands, building online personas that put them on a pedestal. This need for admiration can sometimes create a sense of entitlement, and while it’s not exactly “cool” in the traditional sense, it’s definitely a trend.

Disclaimer: This blog is written to reflect cultural and social observations unique to Nepal. It is not intended to demean or criticize anyone. The content may not resonate with or be applicable to individuals or contexts outside this region.

Author: Hawrry Bhattarai