What Are the Primary Responsibilities of a Teenager?

As a 15-year-old girl, my primary soul responsibility right now is school. It may not be the answer you or anyone else wanted to hear, but it’s the truth. School occupies most of my day not just because I have to go to the building, but because it begins with being dropped off at school and continues through sports, homework, extracurricular activities, and squeezing in time for friends and family. Balancing it all can really take a toll. I'm sure other people my age would understand if I explained this to them, but my parents and some family members just say it's a part of growing up, and they insist I shouldn't stress or feel anxious since my current problems seem insignificant compared to what I will face in a few years.

The Weight of School

Despite the many responsibilities my peers may have, school remains the most prominent among them for me. It not only requires daily attendance but also a myriad of other commitments that take up a large portion of my time. From extracurricular activities like sports and clubs to after-school homework, it’s a demanding responsibility. Even simple aspects like spending time with friends and family require careful scheduling.

The Anticipation of Growing Up

My next major responsibility is growing up, which is a process that feels extraordinarily accelerated. One year, I’m still considered a child, but the next year, I can drive and I’m a sophomore in high school. My parents have emphasized that I’m graduating in just three years and moving out in the same timeframe. It feels like just yesterday we were saying I have five years left, and now it’s only a few short years before my graduation and the need to leave home.

The concept of becoming a fully-functioning adult in just three years can be frightening, especially when my current ability to manage school feels inadequate. The prospect of the “future” is both exhilarating and daunting. I have to accept it as a part of life, but inwardly, the reality of these responsibilities makes me feel unreasonably stressed and scared for no good reason. The transition from middle to high school is particularly dramatic. Suddenly, the world of crayons and glue, the field and playground, and the fun of writing on each other's hands as a prank, is replaced by the complexities of adulthood, including complex social and academic challenges.

The Challenges of Being a Teenager

Becoming a teenager is a time of immense change and responsibility. The academic rigor of high school, the accelerated maturity required by society, and the personal development needed to transition into adulthood can all be overwhelming. While there are certainly pleasures and joys in these formative years, the constant pressure to excel, to fit in, and to make sense of one’s place in the world can be daunting. It’s a time marked by both excitement and anxiety, and it’s essential to find ways to navigate these challenges with resilience and support.

However, despite the challenges, it’s important to remember that these are the last few years of being a kid before the serious responsibilities begin. Embracing the present, finding joy in the small moments, and building a strong foundation for the future can help navigate the complexities of teenage life.