Goals As A Teenager

With Elliot & Stella

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Should teens know what career they want by high school graduation?

I don’t think you need to know by the end of high school or even a year after. You don’t need to know what you want to do, even five years after high school. It’s a process, and there’s no rush.

Yeah, I totally agree. If you do know, that’s awesome. But if not, that’s perfectly fine. It’s a journey, and there’s no rush to figure it all out. High school doesn’t have to define your whole future.

I think it’s crazy that people expect you to decide your whole life before you’re even done figuring yourself out. Like, your brain isn’t even fully developed yet. You’re going to change so much in the next few years.

Exactly. Think about how much you change in just a few years. You have all the time to explore and figure out what works for you.

Should teens know what career they want by high school graduation?

I think it really depends on the person. For me, I don't always set yearly goals. Sometimes, I feel like it just adds stress. It’s not always necessary if you're already managing a lot.

Well, for me, goals are everything. I need something to work toward to stay motivated. Without goals, it feels like I’m just going through the motions.

I get that. I just get stressed out if I don’t meet the goal. Like, I feel like I have wasted all this time, and that doesn’t sit right with me.

Yeah, but maybe smaller goals could help. It wouldn’t feel like so much pressure if you break things down into manageable steps

Can having goals restrict the opportunities teens explore?

I don’t see how. If you’re working toward something, it doesn’t mean you can’t explore other things too. Having a clear goal can help you stay more productive, which gives you the freedom to explore new opportunities without feeling lost.

I see your point, but sometimes I worry that if you focus too much on one thing, you miss out on something else that might come along. Like, what if a new, exciting opportunity shows up but you're too focused on your current goal to notice?

I get that concern, but having a goal doesn’t mean you can’t adjust or change course. It’s about finding a balance, you know? If something unexpected comes up that seems like a good fit for you, you can always re-think and decide if it’s worth pursuing. Staying open to new opportunities doesn't mean abandoning your goals entirely.

Yeah, but it’s hard to know when to let go of a goal in favor of something new. What if you’ve already invested so much time and energy into one thing, and then something else comes along that feels more aligned with what you actually want?

That’s true, it can be tough. I think that the learning and effort you previously invested in helps mould you as a person, it is never wasted. I think the key is to not be too set on one thing. Goals are there to help you move forward, but they should never stop you from exploring other things that might bring even more value to your life.

Should teens prioritize school goals over personal goals?

If you’re aiming for something like a high score for your future career, then yeah, school goals might have to come first. But if it’s not so vital/intense, then personal goals should be just as important.

Exactly! Your wellbeing comes first. If you’re mentally well, then you’re more likely to perform better at school too.

Yeah, balance is key. If you’re too focused on school and forget about the other parts of your life, it’s going to take a toll on you in the long run.

Do teens need a side job while in school?

I think having a job is a great opportunity. Not only does it help financially, but it also teaches you life skills, like time management and responsibility.

I agree. It’s a great learning experience, but I also think it can burn you out if you’re not careful. High school is already a lot to handle.

Yeah, it’s a balancing act. But if you can manage it, having a job builds independence. It helps you grow and gain skills that will benefit you in the future. Also, you’ve already got your first reference for future jobs. It shows that you are willing to work, and a dedicated employee.

Are short-term goals better for teens than long-term goals?

I think short-term goals are much easier to manage, especially for teens. Long-term goals can sometimes feel too distant and hard to focus on.

Short-term goals definitely feel more achievable, but long-term goals are important too. They give you a sense of direction, even if they’re harder to reach.

Yeah, short-term goals give you something to work toward now, and long-term goals help guide you toward the bigger picture. I guess they both have their place.

Honestly, just having goals in general makes life feel more exciting.

Yeah, without goals, it’s like you’re just getting through the days without anything to work towards

Exactly. Goals keep you motivated and give you something to look forward to, which is important when you’re trying to make progress in life.