Ah, the ’80s! A decade filled with unforgettable commercials that not only entertained us but also imparted valuable lessons about growing up. Remember those jingle-filled moments that managed to sneak in wisdom amid the catchy tunes? Let’s revisit some of those classic ads that shaped our understanding of adulthood.
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Life Cereal
Tagline: He likes it! Hey, Mikey!
Life Lesson: Mikey was famously picky, yet he gave Life Cereal a chance. This taught us that new experiences—especially in food—are worth trying, even when we’re skeptical. So next time you’re faced with something different, channel your inner Mikey and dive in! -
Dunkin’ Donuts
Tagline: Time to make the donuts!
Life Lesson: Great things, like donuts, require effort and time. Whether it’s waking up early to whip up breakfast or putting in the extra work for our kids’ needs, this ad reminds us that a little sacrifice goes a long way—yes, even if it means sacrificing some extra zzzs. -
Energizer Batteries
Tagline: The Energizer Bunny keeps going and going…
Life Lesson: Life can be exhausting, and sometimes we might feel like we’re running on empty. But like the Energizer Bunny, we must keep pushing through. Just remember to recharge when you can—because even the most energetic among us need a break now and then. -
Wendy’s
Tagline: Where’s the beef?
Life Lesson: Clara was fierce in her quest for quality. This teaches us the importance of being assertive in life. We can uphold our elegance while still demanding what we deserve. So next time you encounter a situation where you need to speak up, remember Clara’s strength. -
Kit Kat
Tagline: Gimme a break, gimme a break…
Life Lesson: It’s perfectly acceptable for moms (and everyone else) to ask for a break. Whether it’s a moment of silence or a piece of chocolate, we all deserve a little treat. So when the demands of life pile up, don’t hesitate to say, “Gimme a break.” -
Nike
Tagline: Just do it.
Life Lesson: When our kids express doubt about their abilities—be it tying shoes or trying out for the school play—we can encourage them with a simple mantra: Just do it. This can also apply to those nagging tasks we keep putting off, like pulling off a Band-Aid. -
McDonald’s
Tagline: You deserve a break today.
Life Lesson: After a long day of juggling cooking, cleaning, and parenting, treating ourselves to a meal that someone else prepared is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. So yes, you absolutely deserve that break—and a side of fries!
Reflecting on these lessons from our childhood, it’s clear that those playful jingles and memorable taglines provided us with more than just entertainment—they prepared us for the ups and downs of adulthood. So, as you settle in for a binge of your favorite shows, don’t skip those commercials; they might have something valuable to offer. If you’re interested in more insights about fertility and parenting, check out this post on home insemination kits.
Summary
The ’80s brought us commercials that were not only entertaining but also filled with life lessons. From trying new foods with Life Cereal to demanding quality with Wendy’s, each ad provided a nugget of wisdom that resonates with adulthood. As we navigate life’s challenges, these catchy taglines remind us to persevere, ask for breaks, and embrace new experiences.