Important Points for Happy Teenagers

The teenage years are so very important. We make many of the most important decisions of our lives during this time, and we have to do it with plenty of emotional and physical baggage in tow.

So, here is some advice for teenagers from a guy who's been there.

1) The teen years won't last forever. Many teenagers believe they will feel like they do, look like they do, and act like they do for the rest of their lives. This is simply not true. Our teenage years are a transition into the person we will eventually become. Some teenagers feel so depressed, overwhelmed, or overstressed they make dangerous or foolish decisions. Don't force a permanent solution on a temporary problem. Life will get better! Hang in there.

2) Good and bad habits will follow you. Though the teen years are temporary, many of the habits and decisions you make now will follow you for a long time. For instance, most smokers start in their teen years to look cool or fit in, but wish they never had after they become adults. The same is true for drug and alcohol abuse. Any habit that tells you what to do makes you its slave. Don't allow this. You need a clear head as you decide what to study, what college to go to, who to date, who to marry, and what career to choose. Good eating, study, and exercise habits will also follow you.

3) You are not invincible. Many teenagers do very foolish things because they believe harm would never befall them. They drink and drive, or ride with someone who does. Many teenagers will do anything to fit in, be accepted, or look mature. Instead, be your own boss, and if your friends expect you to put your safety in jeopardy to be one of them, find some new friends. This may be a tremendous challenge for you, but your life may depend on it.

4) Sex and love are not the same thing. Hormones are awakening, your body is changing, and attraction is a normal part of growing up, but you will always need to be in control of your own body. A boy who tells a girl she must have sex with him to prove she loves him is showing how immature he really is. If he really cared for her, he would want what is best for her. Life's temptations never go away and if you can control this one, you can handle many others you will face.

5) Don't shut out your parents. It's normal to think your parents are old fashioned, uncool, and have no idea what you are going through, but this is not necessarily true. They've been there and they want what's best for you. Your parents are not there to ruin your life even though it may seem like it at times. Actually talk to your parents and it may surprise you to find out they went through almost all of what you are facing.

6) Remember, the world owes you nothing. You will have to work for whatever you achieve in this life. No one is going to hand you anything; you must do your best and there will be setbacks and disappointments. Be glad you are facing and overcoming trials because that makes you a stronger and more likable person.

7) Lighten up a little. Enjoy these years as much as you can since they are only temporary and try not to take life too seriously. Make some new friends outside your circle, and have a sense of humor about your own shortcomings. Who knows, you may look back at your teen years fondly some day. I hope you will be proud of your decisions.

You can contact Craig Harris at www.apparentlyso.net.