Have you ever stopped to think about where your habits come from? Not the big ones, but the little everyday things. Like always turning things off at the wall, keeping sewing bits in an old biscuit tin, or never quite being able to throw out a takeaway tub just in case it comes in handy?

That’s exactly what this lovely campaign from Chums got me thinking about. They ran a survey with over 1,000 people aged 60 and over, looking into hobbies, habits, and all those things we pass down through generations. And it turns out, 59% of people picked up their favourite pastimes from a parent or grandparent. I absolutely love that. How cute!

It made me reflect on my own routines. I’m forever reusing old tubs and jars like my mum did. She used to say, “Why buy storage when the spaghetti sauce jar does the job?” I also always cook at home and insist on switching everything off properly. Even now, I can still hear my nan saying, “it’s like blackpool illuminations in here!’

What I found really sweet in the survey were the memories people had attached to these little things. Someone shared how they still use their grandma’s biscuit tin to keep their sewing kit in, just like she did. It’s funny how those tiny things stick with us, isn’t it?

Hobbies came up a lot too. Reading was the most popular, followed by gardening, walking, and cooking. Around 42% of people had picked up a new hobby later in life, which I think is so inspiring. It’s never too late to try something new, whether it’s learning a language or joining a walking group.

As someone who travels a lot, I really feel the value of these passed-down habits. They help keep me grounded. Even on the move, I’ll always find time for a good book or a stroll somewhere quiet. It’s like carrying a little piece of home with me.

So now I’m curious… what habits or hobbies have you inherited? The ones you didn’t even realise were passed down until someone pointed them out? I’d love to hear about them. And if you fancy getting involved, you can join the chat with #TeachingHobbyHabits on Instagram or Facebook.