As a teen you might have concerns about your body size, shape, or weight. You are now developing your unique personality and opinions. You may realize that relationships with your friends are still important, yet they may change. You may acquire other interests as you find out a clearer sense of who you are and how you wish to live your life, and what type of education you will pursue.

This is a valuable time in your life to begin to prepare your life goals for more independence and responsibility. It’s always a good idea to discuss these life changing options with your parents, and or legal guardians before you make commitments and or choices.

You may wish to join a community group with age-appropriate youths who have the same interests as you and take classes in areas of interest. You may wish to volunteer at the local community center, learn a sport, or take tutoring classes to help you be your best in school.

Others may seek to find a paying job. In many states you may need to obtain working papers or certificates to work. Nationwide teens, parents, and guardians can find out the guidelines in your state to help you achieve your working goal: Go to: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/state/age-certificates

You need to keep in mind your work choices may be the beginning of a foundation to build your current and future resume of employment history as you gain experience. Should you go to work, if financially possible, open a bank account so your check can be automatically direct deposited in your account each pay period which will encourage you to save money.

At this age you may look into how you can prepare to apply for your first driving experience. Some schools may offer drivers education or drivers tuition and or drivers lessons to help you, the new driver, with the steps required by law to prepare you to obtain a learner’s permit or driver’s license in your state of residence. Learning how to drive safely is an especially important responsibility and must not be taken lightly.

Here you will learn how your body works, how your body uses the food and drinks you consume, and how being active may help your body “burn” calories and stay active. Making sure you get enough sleep is important to stay healthy, how to ease into healthy habits and keep them up, how to plan healthy meals and physical activities that fit your lifestyle.

You also may be ready to make decisions about your body and health. Making healthy decisions about what you eat and drink, paying attention to your hygiene, how active you are, and how much sleep you get is a suitable place to start. These are the beginning of your life decisions. Do your best to think about all the choices you make, giving yourself many different possibilities for your life path.