Working as a camp counselor this summer has been one of the most exhausting endeavors I have experienced yet. We spend a lot of our time at work trying to teach our kids to be respectful to themselves and others. Our time goes to resolving conflicts between campers. And even when we are teaching the kids lessons, the kids have something to teach us as well. When we grow up, there are some aspects and qualities that we lose track of. Here are a few lessons that I have learned from my campers this summer that every teenager or adult can learn from.
1. Don't lose sight of your dreams
Often when we grow older, we get this idea in our head that our dreams are impossible. We get a reality check. We stop wanting to be a movie star and we settle for attainable goals, even if they aren't what we want. Kids shoot for the stars. As adults, we shouldn't lose our ability to dream big. We shouldn't give up on something just because it will not be handed to us on a silver platter.
2. Get over the small stuff quickly
Kids have this amazing ability to snap like a rubber band from sad to happy in an instant. This can be great because they forget about something that did not go their way extremely quickly. Teenagers and adults would be much happier if they learned how to forget about the small instances that don't matter too much. Also, don't hold grudges!
3. Be yourself
Kids have different personalities, and aren't afraid to let that shine through. We should not lose sight of those different, amazing personalities when we grow older. Kids teach us to be our true selves even if you stand out by being different.
4. Have fun
At camp we always encourage the kids to have fun participating in activities. We should never forget to have fun no matter how old we are.
5. Find something you love to do
Kids always complain when they aren't participating in activities that they truly enjoy. Although sometimes we have to suck it up, find a career and hobbies that you enjoy. This will make your life happier and have more meaning.
6. Don't be afraid to ask questions
Kids are always asking why. They question everything. As we grow older, we grow scared to ask questions. We shouldn't! Asking questions helps us learn more, and there really isn't a such thing as a "stupid" question.
7. It's okay to cry
Kids cry. A lot. They aren't afraid to express their emotions. Crying can be very cathartic. Kids show you that it really is okay to display emotion. Bottling up emotion does more harm than good anyway.
8. Ask for help
Kids aren't afraid to ask you for help no matter what the task is. As we get older, we feel that we should be able to do everything on our own. However, there are many times that asking for help can be so beneficial.
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