If you have mastered these five everyday skills you’re more competent than most

There are many small, everyday tasks that when completed, keep our homes and lives running smoothly. However many of the skills required for these day-to-day duties are things that the majority of people when faced with the chore aren’t able to do. Thankfully, there is usually someone around that can get the job done, but those who manage to get the tasks done themselves might just have proved themself more competent than most.

The Express have put together five every day common tasks that most people struggle with, but do you stand out by being able to achieve them. Check to see how many of the tasks you can complete.

Though changing a light bulb is often considered one of the simplest DIY home tasks, more people than you would expect don’t know how to change a light bulb or completely avoid doing so for various reasons. People often are concerned with dealing with electricity, which is a valid reason to be put off. 

However, the easy and quick task is causing more and more Brits to spend money on a professional to carry it out. According to research by Halfords, 22% of people aged 28 to 43 would hire a professional to change the bulb in a ceiling spotlight in their home, while 19% would ask a parent to do it.

Which group are you a part of?

A leaking tap can cause a real inconvenience to the day, and it’s something you don’t want to have to wait around for someone else to fix. Fortunately, according to professionals, they are typically easy to fix, although for many, this may not be the case. Fixing a leaking tap is another chore that many people avoid tackling for fear of causing further damage.

However, it is actually something that can be done without calling a plumber.

The first step is to identify the source of the leak to determine what needs to be fixed. According to Wickes, if it is coming from the sprout, replace the washer. Water leaking beneath the handle? Replace the valve O-ring. If the leak is coming from beneath the sprout, the sprout O-ring will also need to be replaced.

Sewing a button is generally a beginner-friendly skill, where it only requires a needle, thread and a pair of scissors. However, many people actually have no clue how to sew, depriving themselves of a very functional skill.

The British Heart Foundation conducted a survey nearly 10 years ago, which found that 60% of people couldn’t sew a button. Imagine the figures now? 

Fortunately, it only takes a bit of practice and patience to get the hang of the task, and once you do, you’ll be able to save yourself and others from many minor fashion disasters.

Now, this might be one of the trickier tasks out of the five. However, it will save you a load of money if you can do it. Most flat-pack furniture can be built independently, but it is always advised to have two people working on larger or more complex items such as wardrobes.

Flat-pack furniture typically comes with instructions to follow, making patience a key factor in carrying out the task. Most people might shy away from it due to the fact that it requires more equipment than other jobs, but will you pick up the tools and give it a try?

In 2022, Nationwide found that 68% of Brits can’t change a tyre, which is concerning considering how easily a breakdown and occur. More recently, Halfords found that 57% of Gen Zers say they would be unable to add air to a car tyre.

It appears that when it comes to car tyres, whether it is changing or pumping one, both younger and older people struggle. Though there are still people who can successfully get the job done. Are you one of them?

How many of these practical skills did you find you can complete after reading this article?