Relationship

Ten rules for teenagers

Some of my favorite people these days are teenagers.

I’m not an expert on teens or family interactions, but I do know that kids need rules. I wrote these ten for one of those fabulous teenagers who inhabit my world. They are not meant to be all-inclusive, but rather highlight the highlights of life right now. Still, I think they are worth sharing.

Rule 1. Life is too short to hang out with people you don’t like.

Rule 2. There is always a good way to do something difficult. That doesn’t mean it will be easy for anyone involved, but you can look back and feel good about how you handled the situation.

Rule 3. If you have to do it, it’s better to do it soon. Shakespeare said it best, but the point is, if you’re going to break up with him/her, do it sooner rather than wait.

Rule 4. Take care of yourself. You are the only one we have and we think you are very special. Don’t smoke, don’t ride in a car without a seat belt, don’t drink and drive and don’t drive with anyone who has been drinking, don’t assume you are invincible or invisible.

Rule 5. Nothing you put on the Internet really disappears. Facebook is part of the Internet. So is MySpace, text messaging, and YouTube.

Rule 6. Nothing electronic IS your life. This includes TV, social media, email, cell phones, iPods, and gaming systems. Being deprived of any of these for any period of time will not stop major bodily functions or kill your social life. There is scientific evidence to prove it.

Rule 7. Be nice to your mom once in a while, even if she doesn’t deserve it.

Rule 8. This too shall pass.

Rule 9. Commercials, print ads, and videos are not reality. No one in real life spends nine hours doing their hair and makeup or has the advantage of a full-time airbrusher. Strive to be the best you can be, but don’t aim for something unrealistic. What is inside of you is much more important than your haircut or your clothes. Sooner or later, your peers will find out too.

Rule 10. You are the perfect you. And I love you.

What are your favorite rules for teenagers?

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