George Bernard Shaw wrote, “Youth is wasted on the young.” What did he mean by that? Perhaps the quote speaks to the notion that the young are too unaware, naïve, oblivious and confused to appreciate being young. Young people today have so many pressures. They are afraid of being judged and afraid of failure. There are so many opportunities and paths to take, but they are not secure about the road ahead. To help young people grow up to be happy, healthy, functioning adults, here’s my advice:
- Don’t be afraid of failure. In reality, there is no failure. There are only disappointments that make the joy of accomplishments so much better.
- Be strong. Life takes courage, resiliency and compassion. It requires you to overcome fear, pain, grief and other disappointments. It also means learning to make the tough decisions that you know are right, even if you don’t feel like doing them.
- Seek balance. Whether between work and play, family and friends or other competing priorities, make time for both. Develop your total self, including the creative, the intellectual, the athletic, the moral and the spiritual.
- Create a personal vision. Figure out what you want in life. Follow your heart. Invest in yourself. Identify the steps along the way and go for it!
- Understand the role of judgment. When others criticize you or your behavior, the first response is to become defensive. But you can turn this around. Be curious. Ask questions. Understand the other person’s motivations. In some cases, you will be receiving information that is valid and helpful. In other cases the intention might be less than pure. Learn to recognize the difference.