14 Traditions From the 1960s That Could Enrich Our Lives Today

Let’s take a trip back to the 1960s and see what we can learn from the good old days. The 60s were a time of change, but some things from that era could still make our lives better today. Let’s explore 14 traditions from the 1960s that we might want to bring back into our modern lives. These classic pastimes and practices could add more joy, connection, and meaning to our daily routines.

Family Dinners

Back in the 60s, families made it a point to eat dinner together every night. Everyone would sit down at the table, turn off the TV, and talk about their day. It was a great way to stay connected and catch up with each other. Maybe we should put down our phones and try this again.

Writing Letters

Before email and texting, people actually wrote letters to each other. They’d sit down with a pen and paper, pour out their thoughts, and mail them off. There was something special about getting a handwritten note in the mail. It showed that someone cared enough to take the time to write. We could all benefit from slowing down and putting our thoughts on paper once in a while.

Playing Board Games

In the 60s, board games were a popular way to spend time with family and friends. Classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Clue brought people together for some friendly competition. These days, we’re more likely to play video games alone. But dusting off those old board games could be a fun way to bond with loved ones.

Listening to Full Albums

With streaming services, we can now cherry-pick our favorite songs. But back in the 60s, people listened to entire albums from start to finish. There was something nice about immersing yourself in an artist’s full body of work. It allowed you to appreciate the album as a whole, rather than just individual tracks.

Dressing Up for Occasions

In the 60s, people dressed up for all sorts of occasions – church, dinner parties, even airplane flights. Sure, it might have been a bit fussy, but there was something special about putting on your best clothes and looking sharp. These days, we tend to prioritize comfort over style. But maybe we could all benefit from dressing up once in a while, even if it’s just for ourselves.

Neighborly Visits

Back in the day, neighbors actually knew each other and would pop over for a visit. Kids would play together outside while the adults chatted over coffee. There was a real sense of community. Now, many of us barely know our neighbors’ names. Making an effort to be friendlier and more social with the folks next door could make our neighborhoods feel more connected.

Sunday Drives

In the 60s, it was common for families to go for leisurely drives on Sundays. They’d pile into the car and explore the countryside or check out nearby towns. It was a relaxing way to spend quality time together and appreciate the simple pleasure of a scenic drive. With today’s busy schedules, we could all use a reminder to slow down and enjoy the journey sometimes.

Picnics in the Park

Picnics used to be a popular weekend activity for families and friends. They’d pack up some sandwiches, grab a blanket, and head to the park for an afternoon outdoors. It was an easy and affordable way to enjoy good food and company in nature. We should resurrect the picnic as a regular social outing.

Sending Greeting Cards

Greeting cards were a big deal in the 60s. People sent them for birthdays, holidays, and even just to say hello. Getting a card in the mail was a treat and showed that someone was thinking of you. With online greetings so common now, a physical card carries extra meaning. Bringing back the lost art of card sending could spread more joy.

Sewing and Mending Clothes

Most people knew how to sew on a button or mend a tear back in the 60s. Clothing was seen as something to maintain and keep for a long time, not just toss when it got a hole. Learning some basic sewing skills could save us money and make our wardrobes last longer. It’s better for our wallets and the planet.

Reading Print Magazines

Magazines were a major form of entertainment in the 1960s. There was something satisfying about flipping through the glossy pages, taking in the articles and photos. With magazines, you discovered interesting stories you might not have sought out otherwise. Online content is convenient, but it can’t quite replace the simple joy of paging through a print magazine and stumbling upon a gem.

Hosting Dinner Parties

Throwing dinner parties was the quintessential way to entertain in the 60s. Guests would come over for a multi-course meal and sparkling conversation. The focus was on enjoying good food and company, not showing off or one-upping each other. Hosting an old-fashioned dinner party is a lovely way to gather friends for an evening of fun without a lot of fuss.

Keeping a Journal

Journaling has been around forever, but it was especially common in the 1960s as a way to document daily life and process one’s thoughts. Writing things down by hand can be therapeutic and help put issues in perspective. Even if it’s just for our eyes only, keeping a journal is a valuable tradition we should maintain.

Taking Up a Hobby

Having a hobby was a big part of life in the 60s. People spent their free time doing activities like knitting, woodworking, stamp collecting – things that allowed them to relax and explore their creativity. With schedules packed so full now, making time for a hands-on hobby is more vital than ever for our wellbeing. Trying out one of these classic pastimes could give us a much-needed outlet.

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