Be open-minded and take charge of your life

Learning how to take control of your life is not a talent but a choice. Teens need to make different choices and stick with them. It’s unhealthy to live in another person’s shadow, ‘the ball is in your hands, so let it roll the way you want it to. Most teenagers with low self-esteem are greatly manipulated by the so called ‘popular’ girls and boys at school. They end up making wrong choices. Understand what is right and wrong so don’t let your age mates decide for you. Peer pressure has been one of the most inflatable social vices amongst the youth. It’s important to wisely take charge regarding what affects your life. Knowing where you stand concerning key issues like sexuality, drugs and alcohol and not allowing anybody to make you deviate from your position is the greatest achievement when it comes to fighting peer pressure. Speak up and let others know your boundaries. You may get a bit of teasing at first but eventually, your peers will respect your choices and help you live by them. During ugly situations, involving gossip, slander, fights and substance abuse, take control. It is very easy to get caught up in the moment and forget that you will have to live with the choices you make. If you give in and do something that is contrary to your character or core values, it will lead to distress later and you will regret. Always stand up for what you think is right.Some of your friends may not like it when you go against the group but doing the right thing is rewarding. Peer pressure only works if you embrace it; if you refuse to let it intimidate you it loses its power. Always be assertive without becoming preachy or self-righteous but stand your ground. First believe in yourself then the rest will believe in you. Dorau20@yahoo.co.uk