New Responsibilities as a Teenager

By Arya

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Growing up is something that everyone has to go through and deal with. Though at times it may not be extremely enjoyable, it is a part of life and many good lessons come with it. However, so many responsibilities come with growing up, some of them may be fun responsibilities, and others – well, not so much.

I would say that my favorite thing about growing up, or at least turning 16, is that I was able to get my driver’s license. Getting my license was an extremely exciting step for me because it allowed me to gain so much more freedom. Now, because I have my license, I can go wherever I want, whenever I want, well of course with my parent’s permission. Being able to have the freedom to go places alone and just do what I want has truly been amazing and so fun. It also takes a lot of stress off my parent’s backs, knowing that they don’t have to worry about taking me anywhere anymore. However, driving comes with a lot of responsibility, like being safe and making good decisions is a huge part of driving, which has definitely been a learning experience for me. 

Another big responsibility that one gets at a certain age is getting a debit card. Now, although I did get my debit card a few months before I was 16, it is still something that comes with growing up. Although you don’t have to pay off a debit card every month, like a credit card, you still have to be responsible with it: making sure you have enough money in it, making sure to put money in it, spending a responsible amount of money, and making sure to still save your money. Since you control the money that comes into your debit card and not your parents, it is your responsibility to keep yourself accounted for how much you are spending and saving.

Furthermore, a lot changes as you grow up, and during your high school years. For many people, we have to worry about college and getting into college. This means getting good grades, doing lots of extracurriculars, getting a good score on standardized exams, for me the ACT or SAT, and so much more. Doing all of this in just a few years means being responsible and holding yourself accountable for getting everything done. Some ways I keep everything balanced and get everything done include: 

1. Making schedules for your day
   
2. Writing down all the homework and/or tasks you have for that day/week
   
3. Setting times for when you want to do those certain assignments/tasks
   

Essentially, growing up drastically changes your life, in good ways and stressful ways, but they are all important and significant events that will help you learn and grow. I am both excited and nervous to continue growing up because of all the vast unknown opportunities in life that could lead to amazing things. But remembering your responsibilities and making sure you are accountable for them is always important.