Teens, do you want the secret to living your life to the fullest with no regrets? The answer is you, and the choices you make, regardless of your circumstances. Sound too simple? Well, as I often say, it’s simple, but it’s not necessarily easy to start a teen business.
How can you begin to make your life more successful right now? You can start by choosing to listen to and learn from others who are older than you. They can definitely share tips on how to live life to the fullest as a teenager. I know, that sounds boring, but it’s actually not. They have a “shortcut” to success that you will want to know about. A “shortcut” on how to live your life with no regrets.
Study of 70-Year-Old Executives
First, let’s set the stage. Dr. Gerald Bell, a professor at the University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, published a study of 4,000 retired executives whose average age was 70. Yes, that seems old to you right now, as a teen, but stay with me.
Dr. Bell asked these executives one question: “If you could live your life over again, what would you do differently?” Here are the top 8 answers they gave:
• I would have taken charge of my life and set my goals earlier.
• I would have taken better care of my health.
• I would have managed my money better.
• I would have spent more time with my family.
• I would have spent more time on personal development.
• I would have had more fun.
• I would have planned my career better.
• I would have given more back.
Today, a lot of business writers talk about taking smart risks, and I think one more answer could be added to this list: I would have taken more risks.
You Have More Power Than 70-Year-Old Executives
Do you realize you have more power than those 4,000 retired executives combined? You do. Why? Because you are in your teens, not your 70’s! You don’t have to look back at your life with regret and “lessons learned.” You can look forward with joy, determination and a will to win. You can choose to live your life with no regrets by keeping those nine points in mind.
What Are Some Steps You Can Take Today?
Let’s consider your school classes and activities. Is there an elective that you’re excited about but you’re a little bit scared of, too? Do you want to try a new sport or play a musical instrument, but it’s outside your comfort zone? Well, now might be the time to choose to take a little risk at school and take a new class or play a new sport or instrument. Or maybe you have tried to be healthier, to work out more and eat better, but it never quite works? Well, now might be the time to get some support, change your mindset, and then tackle those goals, too — today, when you’re a teen, and not when you’re in your 70’s! In fact, you could even create your Teen Bucket List and your personal Life Plan. If not now, when, right??!!
As the founder of Risepreneur, my team and I help teens tackle issues just like these. In our proven curriculum, we teach you about your body, your mindset, and setting goals. We also teach you how to start a teen business, and we have mentors to guide and encourage you. Come to think of it, though I didn’t plan it this way, we talk about the top 8 regrets that those 70-year-old executives had, plus the extra “taking risks” answer I added.
Why Does It Matter?
Why is this important to start a teen business today? Because as a teen, you can choose to do things differently. You can choose to learn how to live life to the fullest as a teenager. You can choose to live life to the fullest with no regrets when you are in your 70’s. It’s simple, but I’m not saying it’s easy. Whether by yourself or with support, though, you can do this!
Your Success Is Your Choice
For you to achieve all you want to in life, you must be physically and mentally healthy. However, being healthy does not just happen. You must choose to do activities that support your own health and well being, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, having a hobby, and letting go of stress. You must schedule these into your day just like you plan time for friends, work, learning and helping others. Doing so will ensure that you will live life to the fullest with no regrets.
By taking care of your body and your mental health, you are taking care of your success. It’s a foundational move. It’s your choice.
