Would You Like to Live in a Different Decade? My Ideal Time Travel Journey

Time travel is more than just a science fiction concept; it's a fascinating thought experiment, allowing us to explore what might have been had we made different choices in our lives. This article delves into my personal journey as I imagine living in the 1980s, a decade often shrouded in nostalgia. For me, it's not just about reliving moments; it's about redoing some mistakes and making different choices that might have led to a more fulfilling life. Let's explore the possibilities of going back to the 1980s and what I would change if I could.

Redoing Mistakes: A Do-Over

Graduating from high school in 1981 marked the beginning of my adult life, a time when misguided decisions could have significant long-term effects. If I could redo my early twenties, I would start by ending a relationship that didn't serve me well in the fall of 1980. My first boyfriend was a jerk, and spending too much time with him only deepened my unhappiness. My second boyfriend wasn't much better. Fast forward to today, I appreciate my own independence and strength, but I'd love to take that back to the 1980s. I am married now, but I have a solid understanding of how to be alone without being lonely. This journey would be a reminder not to settle for less than the best, even if it means starting over.

Embracing Simplicity: A Return to Simpler Times

Technology has many benefits, but I often yearn for the simpler times of the 1980s. Back then, there was no constant tether to devices, no constant need for instant gratification. I miss the satisfaction of slamming down a phone on someone unkind, or the comfort of answering machines for missed calls. I don't rely on AI to answer my questions, and I don't trust self-driving cars. Instead, I enjoy driving a five-speed, writing checks, and using an IBM Selectric for my typewriting needs and Lotus 123 for spreadsheets. Floppy disks might be outdated, but they work well enough for my needs. I prefer living without constant contact and entertainment, embracing the simplicity and independence of the 80s.

Deciding Wisely: Choosing the Right Path

Thankfully, I can look back on my university experience and see that I had the chance to make a better choice. Instead of transferring to a different university after two years, I could have stuck with the one I first chose and completed my four-year degree. While my first university didn't have the major I thought I wanted, looking back, I see that major wasn't as ideal for me either. This hindsight isn't a criticism but rather an opportunity to appreciate how do-overs can shape our future choices. It's fascinating to reflect on these past decisions and realize that sometimes, redoing certain aspects can lead to a more fulfilling path.

Enjoying the Nostalgia: The Appeal of 1980s Fashions and Music

The 1980s were a vibrant and colorful era, marked by big hair and obnoxious yet fashionable clothing. The music was diverse and excellent, with genres ranging from punk to new wave, providing a wide range of sounds to enjoy. Embracing the ridiculous fashions can be fun, and I would relish the chance to have my hair permmed into an enormous style. The 80s were notoriously colorful, and the loud and distinctive outfits were a statement. I would also love to explore different hairstyles, such as the shoulder-length wavy perm or the famous mullet.

In summary, if I could go back to the 1980s, I would make a few key changes: end unsuitable relationships, appreciate the simplicity of life without constant technology, and make better academic choices. This journey back would be an enriching experience, allowing me to relive a different era with the wisdom of hindsight. As I consider this do-over, I can't help but imagine what other aspects of my life I might want to alter if given the chance. Time travel, after all, is a concept that continues to captivate us with its endless possibilities.

Keywords: time travel, decade, personal growth