Aging is a privilege that comes with many lessons learned. As young adults, teens are just beginning to understand the world around them and form their own opinions. So it can be wise to take a step back and consider the advice of those who’ve been there before. Here are 12 timeless nuggets of wisdom every teen should know according to older generations.
1. Learn To Say No
You must learn to say no to people and not care how they feel about the response. People can be selfish; sometimes, they don’t care about the strain the “favor” might have on you. However, be careful not to guilt-trip others when they say no to you.
2. Do the Things You Want
This advice is for teenagers who feel they can’t do something or enjoy an activity they like because it is “popular.” Who cares? If it makes you happy, then do it. Do what you love with pride. Just ensure it’s, you know, legal.
3. Workout Now
Make this a habit now that you are young and fit with no aching bones. I know it is challenging. Most people struggle to work out consistently but prioritize it. There’s no “right” time to start — only now. Your body will thank you in the long run.
4. Learn Another Language
Back then, we saw French classes as a punishment and disregarded when adults said we’d need it in the future, thinking they were preaching — as you must think now. Learning a new language has so many benefits, and it will be easier than when you are older.
5. Start Saving
Imagine putting aside a fixed sum every month from the time you turn 13 until you are about to turn 20. Even if you set aside a monthly dollar, it would have appreciated over the years. The point? Start saving now. It doesn’t matter how much or how little; start.
6. Making Friends
On this, teens should understand that it takes time to make new friends. The younger you are, the more time you have. Use it wisely; connect with your friends. Talk with and to them, create memories, and don’t just cut people off like it’s something to brag about.
Also, you don’t have to have everything in common with your friend. A commenter explains friendship is more about “values and personality compatibility than likes and dislikes.”
7. Get a Skill That Can Pay the Bills
You may still be young and don’t need to pay bills, but you won’t be young forever — unless you’re Paul Rudd or Pharrell Williams. You need to find and learn a skill you can get paid for as early as possible. And no, it doesn’t have to be your “passion.”
8. Passion and Dreams Are Not Everything
In the same vein, it’s the job that pays the bills that should come first. If you have a passion and it is something that can sustain you in the long run, then you are one of the lucky few. Otherwise, remember that you must compromise and make career decisions for your future.
9. Deal With Your Mental Health Issues
Yes, you are young. But, no, you don’t have “time” to decide to deal with your mental issues later in life. You needed to start yesterday. Deal with them. If you need to go to therapy, please do and prioritize yourself. Do it for your future.
10. Save for Retirement
Retirement may seem decades away, but time flies. Before you know it, you’re wondering where it all went. Start saving the moment you can, specifically towards your retirement. You would be more comfortable in old age.
11. Trust Your Instincts
In weird situations, our instincts often scream, but we ignore them, and then we get in trouble. When you feel like something is wrong, there’s always a reason for that, don’t just brush it off. It may seem cliché, but you have to trust your instincts always.
12. This Should Not Be the Best Days of Your Life
Don’t believe “these are the best years of your life.” No, they are not. Have fun, and make the best of your teenage years, but remember that it is fantastic to grow older.
Watching yourself evolve into a better version of yourself is one of life’s greatest joys. Every step of the journey is a thrill, so don’t spend every night in your 20s partying because you’re trying to get the best out of life. The best is yet to come.
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