Ah, the '80s—a decade of neon fashion, unforgettable pop culture, and iconic music that still gets us dancing. For those of us who grew up in this vibrant era, the '80s were a time of big dreams, big hair, and even bigger personalities. From the Moonwalk to the Rubik's Cube, from "E.T. phone home" to "Where's the beef?"—the '80s were a riot of creativity, change, and life lessons that still resonate today.
As an '80s child and a lifelong fan of Michael Jackson, who recently celebrated his birthday and memory, it’s only fitting to look back on the decade that shaped many of us. So, let’s throw on some leg warmers, crank up the "Thriller" album, and explore the valuable lessons we learned from the decade of decadence and dance.
1. Be Unapologetically Bold
The '80s were all about boldness. Whether it was fashion statements with shoulder pads that could double as airplane wings or hairstyles defying gravity with an insane amount of Aqua Net, nothing was done halfway. The same could be said for the music, and no one embodied this more than Michael Jackson. With his groundbreaking music videos, he didn’t just make songs—he created entire cinematic experiences. Who could forget the horror-meets-dance phenomenon of "Thriller" or the emotional storytelling of "Man in the Mirror"?
The Lesson: Don’t be afraid to stand out. In a world that often encourages conformity, the '80s taught us to embrace what makes us unique and to go big or go home. Whether it’s in your career, personal life, or even a passion project, channel that '80s audacity and make your mark.
2. Innovation Comes from Pushing Boundaries
The '80s were a hotbed of technological advancements and creative breakthroughs. Video games exploded onto the scene with the likes of Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, laying the foundation for the multi-billion-dollar gaming industry we see today. Meanwhile, the music world was revolutionized by the birth of MTV, turning musicians into global superstars and giving us music videos as an art form. Michael Jackson broke down racial barriers on MTV with "Billie Jean" and forever changed how we experience music.
The Lesson: Innovation often comes from pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. When you’re faced with a challenge or stuck in a rut, remember that some of the best ideas come from coloring outside the lines and doing something different. Don’t be afraid to experiment, break the mold, or challenge the status quo.
3. The Power of a Great Story
The '80s were a golden age of storytelling, from movies like "Back to the Future" and "The Breakfast Club" to TV shows like "Cheers" and "The A-Team." These stories weren’t just entertaining; they connected with audiences on a deeper level, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and personal growth. Michael Jackson, too, was a master storyteller—whether he was turning into a werewolf or drawing us into his message of social change. His music, paired with compelling narratives, created a powerful connection with audiences that is still felt today.
The Lesson: Never underestimate the power of a great story. Whether you’re giving a presentation, leading a team, or building your personal brand, a compelling narrative can inspire, persuade, and create lasting impact. Learn to tell your story well, and don’t be afraid to show the world who you are.
4. Embrace the Power of Dance (or Just Move More!)
The '80s was the era when dance truly took center stage. From Michael Jackson’s legendary Moonwalk to breakdancing and aerobics videos, moving your body was not just a trend—it was a way of life. Dancing brought people together, built confidence, and served as an outlet for self-expression. It didn’t matter if you were busting moves to "Beat It" in your bedroom or learning the choreography to "Thriller" with friends; dance was pure joy.
The Lesson: Movement is essential, both literally and metaphorically. In our current world of desk jobs and digital meetings, the '80s remind us to get up and move—whether through dance, exercise, or just stretching. Physical movement boosts creativity, reduces stress, and can help reset our minds. So, next time you’re stuck, turn on some '80s tunes and have a little dance party of your own!
5. Believe in Magic, But Also the Hustle
The '80s were a time of fantasy and wonder. Movies like "The NeverEnding Story" and "Labyrinth" transported us to magical worlds, while shows like "Knight Rider" and "The Wonder Years" kept us glued to our TVs. However, the real magic of the '80s was the grit behind the glitter. Behind every catchy pop song and innovative product was an incredible amount of hard work. Michael Jackson's success wasn't just talent—it was relentless practice, dedication, and a refusal to accept anything less than excellence.
The Lesson: Dream big -- but remember that dreams take work. Success doesn’t come from wishing on a star; it comes from late nights, early mornings, and putting in the hours. Believe in your magic, but back it up with hustle.
6. Stay True to Your Inner Child
One of the most cherished aspects of the '80s was its embrace of fun. It was a decade that encouraged us to be silly, playful, and free-spirited. Toys like the Rubik’s Cube, Cabbage Patch Kids, and Transformers were all about creativity and imagination. Even as adults, many of us clung to these playful elements because they were more than just toys—they were reminders of the joy and curiosity of our youth.
The Lesson: Never lose sight of your inner child. No matter how serious life gets, make room for play, wonder, and a sense of adventure. Sometimes, the best way to solve a problem or break through a mental block is to approach it with childlike curiosity.
7. Community Matters
The '80s were about connection. Whether it was gathering around the TV to watch "Family Ties" or forming friendships through arcade games, there was a strong sense of community. Music played a significant role, too, bringing people together through concerts, dance clubs, and street performances. Michael Jackson's music and persona transcended boundaries, uniting people from all walks of life.
The Lesson: Community is powerful. In our increasingly digital world, it’s easy to feel isolated, but the '80s remind us of the importance of connecting with others. Whether it’s building a strong team at work, finding a group that shares your interests, or even creating a community online, relationships are vital to both personal and professional growth.
8. Stay Grounded Amid the Glamour
The '80s were glamorous, no doubt—flashy fashion, glitzy music videos, and Hollywood blockbusters. But beneath the glitz and glam, there was a real undercurrent of staying true to oneself. Michael Jackson, despite all his fame, constantly reminded us of the importance of love, kindness, and healing the world through songs like "Heal the World" and "Earth Song."
The Lesson: Stay grounded. Success and fame are fleeting, but authenticity, kindness, and a strong set of values will carry you through the ups and downs of life.
Wrapping it up
The '80s were more than just a decade; they were a movement, a feeling, and a mindset. They taught us to be bold, to innovate, to value stories and movement, and to stay true to our inner selves. And perhaps most importantly, they taught us to believe in a bit of magic while working hard to create our own. So, as we remember the late, great Michael Jackson and the '80s that shaped us, let’s carry these lessons forward into our present lives—because the best things never go out of style.
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