by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: November 04, 2008

Welcome to the world of a teen. There are challenges and pressures around every corner and the decision making process is often a difficult one. There are so many appealing activities and punishments such as being grounded or getting suspended from school seem inevitable.

Life really doesn't always seem fair in the teen years but being good is a lot simpler than you think. First, you need to see things for what they really are: lessons. How you act as a teen can help prepare you for life as an adult.

As a teen, being grounded does seem harsh. You are not allowed to do what you want or see the people that mean the most to you. This is the equivalent to jail for adults. If you break the rules, you will get punished. No amount of begging and pleading can prevent that.

Getting suspended from school doesn't always make sense but it does have a point. If you misbehave or break a rule at school, then you are told you can't come back for a few days. In the working world, if you do what you shouldn't, you are fired. Just as your grades will suffer and you will miss out when you are suspended, your bills will suffer and you won't get a paycheck when you are fired.

There are a few ways that you can avoid being grounded and suspended in school. Plus, you will develop better habits for your future as an adult. Once you get in the habit of doing the right thing, it will come more easily to you.

Think.

Thinking is simple unless we really need to do it. Sometimes, in the spur of the moment, it is hard to really make the best decisions. You can change the way you react to situations by practicing impulse control. Think about long-term consequences. Weigh out the pros and cons. Know exactly what you are getting yourself into. Once you take the time to think about it, chances are, you will realize it wasn't such a good idea after all.

Listen.

If you listen to what you are told, you are able to follow directions accurately. Adults don't just talk to hear themselves speak. You may not believe all that you hear but you need to absorb the information and heed warnings. If you are talking, you want people to listen to you. Why not give them the same respect and pay attention?

Focus.

Whether your goals are to finish school, make the ball team, or get honor roll, you need to stay on track. Think of what it is you need or want to do and do it. Focus on your hopes and dreams regardless of the cost. Avoid peer pressure and bad influences. Don't let anything hold you back from the happy future you

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