Throughout your high school years, you’re presented with the thought that it is probably time to start thinking for yourself. Having been fed with what to believe from your parents, teachers or coaches it is easy to question how to transition into adulthood. Being guided by those influences from a young age, society almost forces you to jump into independence quickly, pretty much getting dumped out of the nest and into the real world. Let’s be honest; it is difficult to know what to believe. We are programmed to submit, listen and believe, but is that always smart?

Stereotypes are built upon the rocky foundation of one person’s perspective. These thoughts are shaped with each journey traveled on during one’s life. This particular person spreads their opinions, changing others beliefs and morals. Protecting yourself from these outside influences or stereotypes is the difficult part. Now I’m not saying ignore everyone moving forward, but what I am saying is challenge yourself to be bold. Don’t be afraid to challenge people’s beliefs that are contrary to yours. After all, these high school walls won’t shield you forever. One day you will build your own developed career, gain wisdom and even hold the position of your previous role models. 

Though the easy route would be to validate and conform, instead we must present our own personal perspectives. Put yourself in temporarily uncomfortable situations so that later you can ensure these are your forthright values and not just some silly stories you sympathized with and agreed to believe.

As the great Albert Einstein once presented: “The person who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The person who walks alone is likely to find himself in places no one has ever seen before.”

Being outwardly different in your understanding of society is what will set you apart. The more you experience and the further you grow, the more you will be able to connect with others going forward. Make involvement a key goal because in the end it will teach the most about yourself. Take the time to fully dive into yourself because life is too short to regret to acknowledge your motive.

Soon your time here at LHS will come to an end. With the friendships and skills you collect along the way, make your forthcoming years a priority.