Life Lessons from Growing Up in the ’70s and ’80s: A Reflection on Youth Experience

In a recent conversation with a friend, she expressed her reluctance to revisit her high school days. However, for those of us who navigated the halls during the late 1970s and early 1980s, those years were filled with unforgettable experiences. Yes, we faced the usual teenage struggles—acne, braces, homework, and the pressure of standardized tests—but there were also crucial lessons that shaped our character and resilience. Here are six significant lessons that teens from that era learned, which today’s youth may find hard to fathom.

1. Understanding Delayed Gratification

In our youth, Saturday mornings were highly anticipated. We had to wait an entire week for our favorite cartoons, as binge-watching was a concept that didn’t exist. We savored our sugary cereals and freshly squeezed orange juice while enjoying the limited selection of shows that aired weekly. This instilled in us a sense of patience and appreciation for the things we loved.

2. Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

During my school years, I met individuals like Jake, a boy with a disability who became one of the most beloved students. His humor and friendliness won everyone over. We didn’t need structured programs to teach us about acceptance; we learned by simply interacting with one another and celebrating our differences, fostering an environment of camaraderie.

3. Living Within Limits

Our entertainment options were limited. With only three major television networks and a handful of snack flavors, we learned to make the best of what we had. The simplicity of our choices taught us to appreciate the little things and not to take abundance for granted.

4. Innovative Resourcefulness

In school, we had “study hall,” a time usually meant for studying. However, we often found creative ways to occupy ourselves, crafting paper footballs and origami instead. This ability to innovate with limited resources is a skill that has served many of us well into adulthood.

5. Developing Communication Skills

We communicated face-to-face or over corded phones, often engaging in long conversations with friends. The thrill of passing handwritten notes was a rite of passage—one that came with the risk of getting caught and having them read aloud. Such interactions helped us develop essential social skills that are often lost in the age of texting.

6. Experiencing Epic Entertainment

Finally, we grew up surrounded by iconic movies, music, and television shows that have become timeless classics. From John Hughes films to legendary rock bands, the cultural landscape of the ’70s and ’80s left an indelible mark on our lives. We were fortunate to witness an era of entertainment that continues to influence generations.

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In summary, the experiences of teens from the ’70s and ’80s taught us valuable lessons about patience, acceptance, resourcefulness, and communication—skills that remain relevant today. While technology has evolved, the core values learned during those formative years continue to shape our lives.