Lessons from the '60s and '70s that are seldom taught nowadays, if you were born during those decades

In a world where convenience and instant gratification often rule, it's worth taking a step back to reflect on the values and lessons of yesteryears. One such reflection is found in the article "If You Learned These 5 Hard Lessons as a Child, You Were Raised by Extraordinary Parents", penned in September 2025, though the identity of the author remains a mystery.

The Stanford Marshmallow Test, a psychological experiment conducted in the 1960s, offers a glimpse into the mindset of previous generations. The test demonstrated that delayed gratification builds character and leads to better life outcomes. This was a lesson that wasn't confined to the lab, but was lived every day by people who understood that waiting builds character and rewards are sweeter when earned.

Attention was considered the greatest gift one could give in the past. Meaningful relationships, the single biggest predictor of life satisfaction, were something earlier generations lived, not just studied. Today, families often eat together with a phone propped up at the table, and something important has been lost compared to long dinners at grandparents' houses in the 90s where the TV stayed off and everyone actually talked.

Community was more important than convenience in the 60s and 70s, with neighbors knowing each other and children playing outside. The emphasis on hard work was evident, with kids learning patience the hard way, with no instant gratification. This skill is a strong predictor of long-term success.

Failure was seen as part of the path, not a dead end, and this built resilience in children. People born in the 60s and 70s learned the lesson that life isn't fair, with no sugarcoating, no participation trophies, and no coddling. The emphasis on hard work may not be as strong today, with grades, credentials, and connections often overshadowing raw effort.

Adults didn't need to be told to look someone in the eye during a conversation in the 60s and 70s, it was natural and being present was the norm. Today's constant "instant everything" may lead to a lack of patience and the cultivation of this skill.

The lessons people absorbed in the 60s and 70s, such as resilience, patience, presence, effort, and community, have lasting value. These aren't old-fashioned ideas; they're timeless ones. As we navigate through the complexities of the modern world, it's worth remembering these lessons and the values they represent.