This blog was written by Sumaitah Shahid, Youth Mentor, Next Stop Canada.
Have you ever tried to take the time to explore your inner self? Do you know your limits and unique talents? In the modern world, many youths—especially newcomer youth—struggle to successfully set and meet their goals due to external pressures that they receive from society, family members, and friends. Often, they can feel lost and become unsure about themselves after absorbing external pressure, and they end up setting goals that do not fit their needs.
The common reason youth focus on external forces and meet goals set for them rather than goals set by them is simple: not wanting to disappoint others. This concept is especially true when the pressure is coming from people you care about the most.
I have set many goals based on external forces, but this always satisfied other people and not myself. So, I want to share three tips on how I became more self-aware and chose healthy goals for myself.