As a kid of the 60s or 70s, you were raised in an era where life was less about technology and more about real experiences. You remember the times before cell phones, social media, and the internet.
Those were the days, right?
Well, growing up in those decades might have done more for you than just providing a nostalgia trip. Psychology suggests that there are unique pieces of wisdom that 60s and 70s kids brought into adulthood, influencing their perspective on life and resilience.
This isn’t about glorifying the past or criticizing the present. It’s about acknowledging that every generation has its strengths — and for those who grew up in the 60s and 70s, those strengths can offer remarkable life lessons.
So if you’re curious to revisit your childhood wisdom or maybe even impart some to the younger generation, stay tuned. We’re about to unpack the seven nuggets of wisdom every 60s and 70s kid carried with them into adulthood.
So strap in, prepare for a trip down memory lane, and let’s explore these seven pieces of wisdom from a time when life was simpler, yet equally profound.
1) Value of face-to-face interactions
As a 60s or 70s kid, you grew up in a time when communication was primarily face-to-face. There were no smartphones or social media platforms to hide behind. When you wanted to have a chat with your friends, you would physically go and meet them.
And if you had a problem with someone, you had no choice but to sort it out in person.
This knack for face-to-face interaction is more than just a nostalgic memory – it’s a valuable life skill that modern psychology appreciates. It fosters deeper connections, encourages empathy, and improves communication skills.
In an age where digital communication often reigns supreme, this wisdom from the past serves as a reminder of the importance of personal connections.
Sure, technology has its advantages and has made our lives easier in countless ways. But sometimes, there’s nothing like an old-fashioned, face-to-face conversation to really connect with someone and understand them on a deeper level.
2) Learning to appreciate the simple things
As a child of the 70s, I recall a time when happiness was found in the simplest of things. It was about climbing trees, playing in the yard until twilight, or listening to stories from my grandparents.
There were no high-tech gadgets or video games, just pure, unadulterated joy in simple, everyday experiences.
It’s a piece of wisdom that has stayed with me into adulthood. Our lives today are crammed with technology and material items, and we often forget to appreciate the beauty of simplicity.
I remember one day when my Wi-Fi went out unexpectedly. Instead of feeling frustrated, I took it as an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy some quiet moments. I spent the evening reading a book by candlelight — something I hadn’t done in years.
It was such a peaceful and grounding experience that it reminded me of my childhood days.
Today’s world is filled with distractions that often prevent us from enjoying the simple things in life. But as a wise 70s kid turned adult, I’ve learned to appreciate these moments whenever they come.
Taking time to unplug, slow down, and appreciate the simple pleasures can truly enrich our lives.
3) Embracing change with open arms
Growing up in the 60s and 70s, we were constantly witnessing the world change around us. From the civil rights movement to the moon landing, from the Vietnam War to the advent of color television, we were surrounded by transformation on a grand scale.
Change, for us, was a constant companion. It was not something to be feared, but something to be understood and embraced. It was an integral part of our growing up years, shaping our minds to be adaptable and resilient.
Fast forward to today, and I still carry that wisdom from my childhood. Change is inevitable. It’s a part of life. And instead of resisting it, I’ve learned to adapt and see it as an opportunity for growth.
Whether it’s a shift in career, moving to a new city, or even adapting to the fast-paced technological advancements, embracing change has allowed me to navigate through life with a certain ease and curiosity.
4) Nurturing a sense of community
In the 60s and 70s, the sense of community was strong. Neighbors knew each other by name, kids played freely in each other’s yards, and doors were often left unlocked. We celebrated together, mourned together, and supported one another through thick and thin.
This sense of community instilled in us a deep understanding of togetherness and shared responsibility. It taught us that we’re not alone – that we’re part of something bigger.
In today’s world where individualism often takes precedence, remembering the importance of community can help us build stronger relationships and create a sense of belonging. It reminds us that we’re all interconnected and that our actions can have a ripple effect on those around us.
So, let’s not forget this valuable lesson from our past. Let’s foster our sense of community, be there for each other, and remember – it takes a village.
5) The importance of patience
In the fast-paced world of instant gratification we live in today, patience seems to be a virtue that’s often overlooked. But for us kids of the 60s and 70s, patience was a part of daily life.
Whether it was waiting for your favorite TV show to air once a week, or for the film from your camera to be developed, we understood that good things take time. It wasn’t about rushing through life, but about savoring each moment as it came.
Interestingly, research has shown that practicing patience can lead to better mental health, lower stress levels, and increased satisfaction in life. It seems our childhood wisdom has some scientific backing!
This lesson has stayed with me throughout my life. Whether it’s waiting for the right career opportunity or for a home-cooked meal to be ready, I’ve learned that rushing usually leads to mistakes and missed opportunities.
6) The power of kindness
Growing up in the 60s and 70s, kindness wasn’t just a word, it was a way of life. From sharing toys with siblings to helping a neighbor with their groceries, acts of kindness were embedded in our daily lives.
This practice of kindness taught us the importance of empathy and compassion. It showed us that our actions, however small, could make a significant difference in someone else’s day.
As an adult, I’ve carried this wisdom forward. I’ve found that even a simple smile or a thank you can brighten someone’s day. And in challenging times, offering a listening ear or a helping hand can provide comfort and relief.
So, let’s choose kindness and empathy over judgement and indifference. After all, as the saying goes, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”
7) Resilience is key
If there’s one thing growing up in the 60s and 70s taught us, it’s that life is full of ups and downs. We lived through times of social unrest, economic changes, and saw the world transform before our eyes.
These experiences instilled in us a strong sense of resilience.
Resilience is about bouncing back from adversity, learning from our experiences, and moving forward with optimism. It’s about standing tall in the face of challenges and not letting setbacks define us.
As adults, this resilient spirit has helped us navigate through life’s storms with grace and positivity. It has taught us to see failures as stepping stones to success and to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
Resilience is not just a trait, it’s a choice – a choice to persevere, to stay positive, and to keep going no matter what. And perhaps, it’s one of the most valuable pieces of wisdom we carry from our 60s and 70s upbringing.
Embracing the wisdom of the past
If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these pieces of wisdom, it’s likely you’ve recognized the value they hold. These lessons from our upbringing in the 60s and 70s aren’t just nostalgia, they’re timeless wisdom that can still guide us today.
But remember, acknowledging these pieces of wisdom is just the first step. The real magic happens when we apply them in our lives.
Take a moment to reflect – how can you incorporate this wisdom into your daily life? Is there a lesson here that particularly resonates with you? Remember, change starts with small steps and consistent efforts.
In a world that’s constantly shifting and evolving, these timeless lessons can serve as our anchor – reminding us of what truly matters. As we navigate through life, let’s carry this wisdom from our past with us, using it to shape our present and future.
In doing so, we honor not only our own journey but also the wisdom of a bygone era. And perhaps, in the process, we can inspire others to do the same.
After all, as George Bernard Shaw once said, “We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future.”
