20 Heartfelt Tips for the Next Generation
My kids are growing up, and I have something to tell them
My tweens are wonderful, happy, busy, easily influenced, energetic, and have a lot to say. I am a lucky mom. They are typically talking non-stop or being busy with their iPhones. While they’re in school, I’m taking this opportunity to share my caring advice. I hope they will keep these useful lessons in mind on their life’s journey.
To fellow parents
I hope you find inspiration in my list of advice. Perhaps you’ll even decide to compose a similar list for your kids?
1. Be curious and open-minded
You have so much to learn. Seek knowledge. See things from a different perspective. Pay attention, and you can gain valuable knowledge from all of your life's experiences. Listening to others can give you important wisdom.
2. Be kind
Always be kind. I want you to have your own opinion, and you don’t have to agree with other people. However, you don’t know people’s stories, so give them the benefit of the doubt.
3. Live in the moment
Life is right now. Don’t live it in regret of the past or the dreams of the future. Take one day at a time.
4. Do your best
By doing as well as you can, neither you nor anybody else can demand more. If you give it your all today, you reduce the possibility of looking back with regret.
5. Be humble
No one likes a pompous, arrogant know-it-all. Be humble, encouraging, and help people grow. Be the kind of person your future self can be proud of.
6. Be positive
You will influence those around you with your mood and behavior. Try to spread good vibes. Make your company a place people thrive.
7. Be brave
Grow by daring to do something you dread. Stand up for those who get unfairly treated. I know it can be scary, but remorse hurts too.
8. Take care of your friends
Genuinely good friends are rare and valuable. When you find awesome friends, appreciate and prioritize them. A true friend is someone who always wants your best, who appreciates you, and has your back. It’s someone you can look to when you need to be brave.
9. Don’t crave what other people have
People’s value does not depend on things. See past it and don’t be materialistic. Usually, you have what you need. Pursue experiences, happiness, and good relationships.
10. Save money
Make good habits early. You will be grateful later in life.
11. Be yourself
Don’t try to be what you think others expect of you. Be yourself. That’s good enough for me. Are you an introvert? It’s all right not to seek other people’s company constantly. Do you fall in love with the same gender? I don’t care, as long as you are happy. Do what feels right for you, as long as you don’t hurt anyone else in your process. Or try not to, at least. Sometimes we hurt someone’s feelings.
12. Not all days are fantastic
Don’t think that what people choose to show you on social media is the reality. Everybody has crappy days and bad periods in their life. When you are down, remember you are not alone. Please find someone to talk to. Keep going. One day you will thrive again.
13. Take care of your body
Eat high-quality food, be active, de-stress and get enough sleep.
14. Read every day
Learn to love books and stories. With that, you’ll have a more fulfilling life. Books have it all. They offer a world full of possibilities. Get inspired, learn something new, immerse yourself in a new world, find joy and let the hours fly by. It’s a great escape when you need to breathe.
15. Do what is right for you
You don’t owe anyone anything. It is fine to say no.
Don’t hang out with toxic people. They don’t make you the best version of yourself.
16. Find your truth
Don’t have blind faith in newspapers and what other people claim to be the truth. Never believe uncritically in people who want to sell you something. Examine yourself and make your own opinion. To gain a broader perspective, seek new knowledge, and don’t be judgemental.
17. Don’t say cruel things
Don’t be a bully in real life or online. Remember, karma is a bitch.
18. Drink coffee or tea
Let the first cup of the day be a treasured moment. Read a good book, look at the view and enjoy life. Be grateful and think happy thoughts.
19. Travel
Get out, experience the world and create memories.
20. You are awesome
Always remember that you are perfect. Don’t feel bad about your look. Have faith in yourself. You are good enough!
To my daughters
Growing up can be a struggle. You have a lot to experience on the road to becoming the best version of yourselves. I hope you will let me be your guide and support. My most heartfelt wish is for you to become confident and fulfilled.
To all us parents with tweens
You can’t prepare for every situation in life. Let’s do our best to teach the kids to make good choices, trust themselves, and know that they are valuable.