Every generation has its quirks, but there’s something different about people born in the ‘70s.
They grew up in a world without smartphones, streaming, or social media, which shaped their perspectives and approach to life in some pretty unique ways. While this doesn’t make them any better or worse than other generations, there are certain values from the ‘70s crowd that stand out—things they seem to hold dear that might feel a bit lost today.
1. Face-to-face communication is gold.
For people born in the ‘70s, nothing beats a good, old-fashioned chat in person. Before texting, DMs, and emojis, catching up over a cup of coffee or spending hours talking on the phone was the norm. There’s just something about hearing someone’s voice or seeing their face that no amount of typing can replace. For them, those small moments of connection are everything.
2. They respect a good mixtape.
Making a mixtape wasn’t just about picking songs—it was an art form. Whether it was for a crush, a friend, or just for themselves, curating that perfect playlist was a way of saying, “This is how I feel.” Sure, we’ve got playlists now, but there’s something about pressing “record” at just the right moment that gives mixtapes an edge that streaming can’t match.
3. Privacy matters—a lot.
Before social media made everyone’s business public, keeping things private was a given. People born in the ‘70s don’t feel the need to share every detail of their lives with the world. They know the value of keeping things sacred between close friends and family. For them, some moments are just for you, and that’s perfectly fine.
4. They appreciate patience.
Patience was just part of the deal back then. If you wanted to watch your favourite TV show, you had to wait for it to air. Getting photos developed took weeks. Waiting for things was a part of life—and they learned how to deal with it. Now, when everything’s instant, they’re the ones who still have the patience to let things unfold at their own pace.
5. They take pride in DIY fixes.
They grew up with the mindset that if something broke, you fixed it. Whether it was sewing a tear in your favourite jeans or repairing a piece of furniture, the idea of throwing something away without trying to fix it was unheard of. That “I can handle it” attitude is still alive and well today, and it’s something that feels rare in a world where everything’s disposable.
6. They cherish handwritten notes.
Source: Unsplash In a time before texting, a handwritten note or a letter was a big deal. Sending a card with a heartfelt message was the norm, and those little notes carried a personal touch that’s hard to replicate. For them, putting pen to paper wasn’t just a form of communication—it was a meaningful way to show you cared.
7. They believe in being on time.
Before smartphones and digital reminders, people had to rely on their own memory to keep track of things—and they still managed to be on time. To them, punctuality isn’t just about being early—it’s a way of showing respect. If they say they’ll be there at 7, they’re there at 7, and they expect the same from other people.
8. They value physical books.
For people born in the ‘70s, there’s nothing like the feel of a real book in their hands. Sure, e-readers are convenient, but they’ll always miss the smell of paper and the joy of flipping through the pages of a physical book. To them, a home without books feels a little empty—because a good book is more than just something to read; it’s something to cherish.
9. They know how to disconnect.
They were the last generation to grow up without constant digital distractions, so they’re pros at disconnecting. It’s no big deal for them to leave their phone in another room or even turn it off for a few hours. While some might feel anxiety without a phone nearby, for them, it’s a chance to enjoy real life without the bombardment of notifications.
10. They respect proper grammar.
We all make typos now and then, but for people born in the ‘70s, proper grammar was drilled into them early on. They appreciate well-written communication and will always notice when someone uses “your” instead of “you’re.” They might not always point it out, but they still value that level of detail when it comes to expressing themselves.
11. They know the value of unplugged fun.
Before the internet, people had to get creative to pass the time. Board games, bike rides, and just hanging out with friends were the go-to activities. They weren’t worried about missing out on something online; they were out making memories. These days, they still appreciate the simple pleasures and the idea that fun doesn’t need a screen.
12. They appreciate the news, not the noise.
In the ‘70s, news was straightforward—coming from trusted sources, like the evening news or the newspaper. For people born in that decade, it’s all about staying informed without the chaos of endless opinions and hot takes. They’d rather read the paper or watch the news calmly, without all the noise that social media often brings.
13. They understand the importance of privacy in friendships.
What you say to a friend stays between you and that friend. For them, loyalty and discretion are key values in any relationship. They know the value of trust, and gossip just doesn’t have a place in their lives. If you’re talking about someone behind their back, you’re not part of their circle.
14. They hold onto family traditions.
Whether it’s Sunday roasts, holiday rituals, or family sayings that get passed down, people born in the ‘70s love keeping traditions alive. These little customs tie families together and provide comfort in an ever-changing world. They might joke about being nostalgic, but to them, traditions are something that really matter, offering a sense of continuity and belonging.
15. They know the value of effort.
For people born in the ‘70s, hard work was the norm. Whether it was saving up for something big or putting in the effort to achieve a goal, they understood that good things take time. Instant gratification wasn’t even a concept back then, and the journey to something worthwhile was just as important as the result. That’s a value they’ve carried with them into today’s fast-paced world.
