15 Pieces Of Advice We Got Growing Up In The ’60s That Still Live Today
Growing up in the ’60s was nothing short of magical — a kaleidoscope of flower power, vinyl spinning on turntables, and life lessons tucked neatly between peace signs and protest songs. It was an era where advice wasn’t shouted from social media feeds, but shared across kitchen tables, front porches, and long road trips in cars without seatbelts.
These nuggets of wisdom were more than just words; they were family treasures, polished by generations and passed down with a smile, a wink, and maybe a story or two. Sure, bell-bottoms, beehive hairdos, and lava lamps might have drifted into the misty corners of memory, but the timeless advice we gathered during those vibrant years still rings true today.
Whether it was about loving fiercely, staying true to yourself, or simply remembering to dance whenever you heard good music, the spirit of the ’60s lives on through the lessons we carry in our hearts.
So let’s fire up that record player, channel a little flower power, and dive into 15 pieces of advice from the swinging ’60s that continue to light our way through the fast-paced, often chaotic rhythm of modern life.
1. Treat others the way you want to be treated.
The Golden Rule never lost its shine, shimmering through decades like a trusty disco ball. Growing up, my mother would remind me before school, “Remember, honey, do like you want done to you.” This advice wasn’t just a gentle nudge but a firm handshake on how to navigate life’s social labyrinth.
In a world where everyone seems to be elbowing their way to the front, treating others kindly is like handing out front-row tickets. You see, kindness is a boomerang that always finds its way back, even if it takes the scenic route. The trick is to throw it with sincerity.
Whether sharing your sandwich with the new kid or simply smiling at strangers, each small act echoes louder than a rock concert. After all, nobody ever got hurt by a little extra kindness. So, be generous with your good vibes, and watch them flow back to you like a melodious symphony.
2. If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
Simple, timeless advice that still saves a lot of trouble. My grandmother, with a knowing twinkle in her eye, would always say, “Zip it if it’s not sweet as sugar.” This mantra was the unsung hero of many family dinners, averting countless arguments over burnt meatloaf or questionable fashion choices.
The art of silence is like a good magic trick — it leaves people wondering and never disappoints. In today’s world of social media oversharing, a little restraint is the new black. It’s about knowing when to hold your tongue and when to let it wag freely.
Like a seasoned comedian, timing is everything. Knowing when to keep quiet can be more powerful than the loudest megaphone. So, next time you’re tempted to spill some tea, consider brewing a calming cup of chamomile instead. You might just find peace is the best punchline of all.
3. A little hard work never hurt anybody.
Back then, elbow grease was practically a virtue. I remember my dad handing me a rake and saying, “Son, those leaves won’t rake themselves!” It was a rite of passage, akin to earning your stripes, or at least your allowance.
Hard work wasn’t just about breaking a sweat; it was about building character and cultivating resilience. With every weed pulled or lawn mowed, I learned the sweet satisfaction of a job well done — and perhaps a few blisters.
Nowadays, in the age of instant gratification, the value of hard work is a rare gem. But those who embrace it find it enriches life’s tapestry with colors of perseverance and achievement. So, roll up those sleeves and tackle each task with gusto, because the harvest is always worth the toil.
4. Money doesn’t grow on trees.
A reminder that spending wisely and saving up were essential lessons. My uncle would chuckle as he jingled the coins in his pocket, “You gotta save before you splurge, kiddo!” This advice was the financial playlist of my youth, stuck on repeat.
In a world of plastic swipes and digital currency, the tangible clink of a coin dropping into a piggy bank holds a certain nostalgia. It’s about understanding that wealth isn’t conjured magically but grown through wise decisions and frugality.
As I grew older, the lesson behind those jingling coins became clear: financial mindfulness is timeless. Just like a tree, money needs nurturing to flourish, steering clear of storms of impulsivity. It’s a dance between saving and spending, and learning the rhythm can lead to a symphony of abundance.
5. Stand up for what you believe in.
The ’60s were a decade of change, and courage in convictions was admired. My history teacher, an old hippie with stories that could fill volumes, passionately declared, “Speak your truth, even if your voice shakes!”
In a world of conformity, being different was a badge of honor. Standing up for beliefs was more than just a rebellious phase; it was a declaration of identity. Whether it was fighting for civil rights or simply voicing an unpopular opinion, courage was celebrated.
Today, the world may have changed, but the need for bravery remains. Speaking out can be daunting, but remember, even the smallest voice can inspire a crescendo of change. So, raise your banner high and let your convictions soar, because silence never sparked a revolution.
6. You are known by the company you keep.
Choose your friends wisely — a truth that still holds firm. My mother always warned, “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future.” It was a gentle reminder that who you surround yourself with can color your world.
Friendships are like gardens; they need careful tending. Each person in your circle contributes to the mosaic of your life, influencing choices and paths. It’s not about quantity but quality, nurturing those who lift you higher.
In today’s interconnected world, this advice is more relevant than ever. Whether online or offline, curating your community with care enriches your journey. So, choose wisely, because the right companions can turn the road ahead into an exciting adventure.
7. Mind your manners.
Please, thank you, and excuse me still open more doors than you might think. My grandmother always insisted, “Politeness costs nothing but means everything.” It was the social currency of the ’60s, and its value hasn’t diminished.
Manners are the unsung heroes of social interactions, paving the way for smooth exchanges and lasting impressions. In a world of fast-paced communications, a touch of politeness can be a refreshing breeze.
Even today, a simple act of courtesy can turn a mundane day into something special. Holding the door open or sharing a genuine smile can create ripples of positivity. So, mind those manners, because kindness is always in style.
8. Finish what you start.
Seeing things through built character, not just trophies. My art teacher, paintbrush in hand and splotches of color on her apron, often said, “A masterpiece takes time, don’t rush the process!”
Completing a task wasn’t just about winning; it was about personal growth and satisfaction. Whether it was a science project or a simple hobby, finishing something fueled a sense of accomplishment.
In a world that promotes shortcuts, this advice remains a beacon of perseverance. Embracing the journey, with all its ups and downs, adds depth to life’s canvas. So, keep painting, because every stroke is a lesson in persistence and passion.
9. Respect your elders.
Even when you didn’t always agree, you listened and learned. My grandfather, with his twinkling eyes and tales of yore, would say, “Every wrinkle tells a story, listen closely.”
Respecting elders wasn’t just about obedience; it was about valuing wisdom and life experiences. With every story shared, I discovered hidden gems of knowledge, understanding that age brought perspectives that youth couldn’t fathom.
Today, amidst rapid generational shifts, this advice still echoes with truth. Listening to those who’ve walked before us enriches our own journey, intertwining past wisdom with future aspirations. So, lean in and listen, because every story has the power to shape your own.
10. Honesty is the best policy.
A good reputation could take a lifetime to build — and only a second to lose. My mother would often remind me, “Truth is like the sun, it always comes out.”
Honesty wasn’t just about telling the truth; it was about building trust and integrity. Whether confessing a fib about a broken vase or sharing genuine feelings, truthfulness was the cornerstone of every relationship.
In today’s world, where deception can hide behind screens, honesty remains a guiding light. Embracing transparency nurtures trust and deepens connections, illuminating paths of understanding. So, walk the path of truth, because integrity is timeless and always in style.
11. Don’t judge a book by its cover.
Whether about people or opportunities, appearances rarely told the full story. My teacher, with a collection of quirky hats, always said, “Look beyond the surface, for treasures lie within.”
This advice was an invitation to explore deeper, peeling back layers to discover true essence. In a world often fixated on appearances, it was a gentle reminder that beauty is more than skin deep.
Today, embracing this wisdom opens doors to unexpected friendships and opportunities. By looking beyond the facade, we uncover richness in diversity and potential. So, dive into the unknown, because every cover has a story waiting to unfold.
12. Actions speak louder than words.
True then, true now — talk is cheap, but effort is golden. My father would always say, “Deeds, not words, are the real testament.”
In a world of promises, actions were the currency of trust. Whether it was lending a helping hand or keeping a promise, deeds built bridges that words couldn’t.
Today’s fast-paced life can dilute genuine intentions, but actions remain steadfast. Embracing this ethos strengthens bonds and cultivates lasting relationships. So, speak through your deeds, because actions truly resonate louder than any words could.
13. Patience is a virtue.
Good things really do come to those who wait, even when it’s tough. My Aunt Mary, with her endless patience, would often say, “Patience, my dear, is the art of hoping.”
This wisdom was about embracing the waiting game, finding strength in anticipation. Whether it was awaiting a letter in the mail or biding time for a cherished moment, patience was a gentle teacher.
In a world of instant gratification, this lesson stands firm. Cultivating patience nurtures resilience and enriches experiences, transforming waiting into an art. So, practice patience, because its rewards are sweet and lasting.
14. Be grateful for what you have.
Appreciation and humility were everyday lessons, not holiday slogans. My grandmother, as she served dinner, would always say, “Count your blessings, they’re plenty.”
Gratitude wasn’t just about saying thank you; it was a mindset of abundance. Recognizing the small joys and simple pleasures added richness to everyday life.
Today, in a world of wants, being grateful fosters a sense of contentment and peace. Embracing gratitude shifts focus from what we lack to the beauty of what we possess. So, count your blessings, because gratitude is the secret joy in life’s journey.
15. Leave a place better than you found it.
From picnic grounds to friendships, it was about making things — and the world — a little better. My scout leader always advised, “Leave footprints of kindness wherever you tread.”
This was a call to action, a reminder that our actions create ripples. Whether it was tidying up after an event or mending a rift, leaving things better was a legacy worth cherishing.
In today’s world, this ethos encourages stewardship and responsibility. Each positive action contributes to a tapestry of improvement, weaving a brighter future. So, leave your mark with care, because every act of kindness enriches the world.