If you grew up in the 70s or '80s and still do these 7 things, your childhood shaped you more than you realize

There's a unique charm about growing up in the '70s or '80s. The experiences of those eras were distinct, and they've shaped us in ways we often overlook.

It's like you're carrying a piece of that time with you, all encapsulated in certain habits and quirks. You might not even realize how these tiny nuances hark back to your childhood days.

Well, this article is about to put a spotlight on those. Here are seven things you might still do if you grew up in the '70s or '80s. If you recognize yourself in these, then your childhood was more influential than you ever imagined.

Now, let's take a trip down memory lane and see how the past continues to shape our present, shall we?

1) You still crank up the dial

Who can forget the excitement of tuning into your favorite radio station or adjusting the TV antenna for a clearer reception? Those growing up in the digital age might not understand, but if you're still one to manually adjust your car radio or feel a strange satisfaction in seeing TV static, it's a clear sign your childhood in the '70s and '80s continues to influence you.

Remember, this was a time before remote controls and digital tuners were commonplace. It was all about that tactile sensation, the thrill in finding the right frequency.

And if you still cherish that, it's more than just nostalgia. It's a part of your identity that's been shaped by your formative years. So the next time you find yourself reaching for that dial, remember - it's not just an old habit. It's a testament to your past, a link connecting you back to those golden days of yesteryears.

2) You still love handwritten notes

When I was a kid growing up in the '80s, there was something special about writing and receiving handwritten notes. Maybe it was a note passed to a friend in class, or a birthday card for a family member.

Even today, I find myself reaching for a pen and paper instead of sending a text or an email. There's just something about the act of writing by hand that feels more personal, more meaningful. I often jot down my thoughts and ideas in a notebook, even when I have my laptop right in front of me.

And it's not just about nostalgia. The act of writing by hand slows you down, makes you think more about what you're saying. It's a trait that has served me well in life - making me more thoughtful and considerate.

So if you're like me and still love your handwritten notes, it's not just an old-school preference. It's an indication that your childhood years in the '70s or '80s have had a profound impact on your communication style and thought process.

3) You're a whiz with physical maps

Before GPS and Google Maps took over, we relied on physical maps. If you grew up in the '70s or '80s, you might be an expert at reading these. From plotting your route on a road trip to locating a small town on a world atlas, you've done it all.

Interestingly, the use of physical maps enhances spatial awareness and cognitive map-building skills. This means if you're good with a traditional map, you likely have a superior understanding of distances, directions, and geographic locations compared to those who always depend on digital aids.

This isn't just an old habit clinging on; it's a valuable skill honed by the experiences of your youth. So the next time you unfurl that map or instinctively understand directions better than your GPS-reliant friends, know that it's your childhood in the '70s or '80s continuing to shape your unique abilities.

4) You still remember phone numbers

In the era of smartphones and digital contacts, remembering phone numbers is a dying art. But if you grew up in the '70s and '80s, this was a skill you honed.

Back then, you didn't have cell phones with unlimited storage for contacts. You had to memorize important numbers or risk being unable to contact your friends, family, or even the local pizza place.

If you're someone who still remembers phone numbers by heart, it's not just an impressive memory feat. It's a testament to the way your childhood has shaped your memory and recall abilities.

So, the next time you dial a number from memory while others scramble for their contact lists, take a moment to appreciate how your past continues to influence your present.

5) You still record shows on VHS

There's something magical about the whirring sound of a VCR, the tactile joy of pressing chunky buttons, and the anticipation of waiting for your favorite show to record. These might seem outdated in today's era of Netflix and Hulu, but for those of us who grew up in the '70s or '80s, it's a piece of our history that's hard to let go.

I still have a collection of VHS tapes, and sometimes, I'll pop one into my old VCR and watch it. This isn't just about nostalgia; it's about cherishing a part of my history that's shaped who I am today.

The patience required to record a show, the joy of replaying it over and over again - these experiences have taught me to appreciate the value of delayed gratification and savoring moments. So if you're still holding on to your VHS tapes and occasionally recording shows like old times, it's not just a quirky habit. It's a reflection of how your childhood continues to shape you.

6) You're fond of board games

In an age of digital gaming, if you still find delight in the roll of dice on a board game, it's a clear indicator of your '70s or '80s roots. Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue - these games were a staple of many childhoods during these decades.

The joy of gathering around a table with friends or family, the thrill of strategizing, the competitive spirit - these experiences have left a profound impact on many of us.

Board games aren't just about entertainment; they're about interaction and connection. They teach us strategy, patience, and the art of both winning and losing gracefully. If you're still an avid board game player, it's more than just a hobby. It's a testament to how your childhood continues to shape your social skills and interactions.

7) You still value face-to-face conversations

In the world of texting, social media, and video calls, face-to-face conversations have become less common. Yet, if you grew up in the '70s or '80s, you likely still value the personal touch of in-person interaction.

This isn't just about being social or outgoing. It's about understanding the importance of genuine connection, reading body language, and appreciating the subtleties of communication that can't be translated through a screen.

If you find yourself yearning for face-to-face chats, relishing in deep discussions over coffee, or simply enjoying the company of others in a personal setting, it's more than just a preference. It's a significant part of your identity shaped by your formative years.