By Joe Aura,
Email: aurajoe6@gmail.com
If you could have everything you ever wished for in life, what would you want? The answer to this question reveals more than just desires; it shows what drives us. For young people, this is a crucial time to discover how to use their time and energy in ways that shape their future. This exploration can be both exciting and daunting. In scholarly terms, youth is often defined as a transitional phase from childhood to adulthood, characterized by significant physical, psychological, and social changes.
It is often called the golden period of life, where the world seems ripe for exploration, and endless possibilities are on the horizon. However, the journey through youth isn’t always smooth. It’s a time of identity formation, societal expectations, and a quest for independence—each fraught with significant challenges.
Identity Formation: Who Am I?
The search for identity is a defining characteristic of youth. It is a period when individuals begin asking, “Who am I?” and “Who do I want to become?” This quest for self-discovery is influenced by various factors, including family, culture, peers, and media.
According to literarytrust.org 93.4% of children and young people aged 7 to 18 had at least one role model.The most popular role models were mums (67.4%) and dads (60.2%). More than half of children (52.6%) said that they look up to a YouTuber, while fewer than 2 in 5 looked up to a sibling (38.3%) or teacher (36.5%).
In today’s connected world, young people have access to vast amounts of information and a multitude of role models, both real and virtual. This can be a blessing, providing opportunities for growth and learning beyond one’s immediate environment. However, it can also lead to confusion as they try to navigate the myriad of choices available to them.
This confusion is heightened by societal pressures. The expectations placed on youth to succeed, conform, and excel can be overwhelming. As Sadhguru, a renowned spiritual leader, explains, “You must come out of the trap of ignorance. What is the point of knowledge if it doesn’t enlighten you?” Youth often feel the weight of ignorance as they seek to answer fundamental questions about their identity and place in the world. The challenge lies in moving beyond external expectations to discover and define one’s own path. It’s about coming into alignment with oneself and moving from confusion to clarity.
Societal Expectations: The Weight of the World
The modern world places immense pressure on young people to succeed. They are often expected to achieve academic milestones and career success, leading to unrealistic standards. Social media exacerbates this pressure by emphasizing likes, followers, and the need to maintain a perfect online image.
Although social media allows for global connections and self-expression, it also intensifies feelings of inadequacy as young people constantly compare themselves to others. It happens to you, it happens to me too. Sadhguru addresses this issue, encouraging youth to live with intention rather than being consumed by societal expectations. He emphasizes that their self-worth should not be dictated by others’ perceptions.
The pressure to conform to societal norms can hinder creativity and individuality. Many young people lose touch with their true selves and what truly matters to them while striving to meet external standards, leaving them questioning their place in the world.
The Quest for Freedom
Socrates said “ To find yourself, you must think for yourself”. One of the most important parts of growing up is the journey towards independence. It’s natural for young people to want to make their own decisions, live by their own rules, and find their place in the world. However, becoming independent comes with its own set of challenges.
Financial independence is a major hurdle for many young people today. The increasing costs of education, housing, and living expenses often delay their ability to live on their own. This financial dependence can be frustrating because it conflicts with their desire for control over their own lives.
Aside from financial struggles, there’s also the emotional aspect of gaining independence. Transitioning from adolescence to adulthood requires a shift in mind-set. It means balancing the desire for freedom with the responsibility that comes with it. Sadhguru encourages young people to embrace life and its challenges, reminding them that life is meant to be experienced, not avoided. This perspective can help young people face their challenges as part of their growth and development.
The Role of Education: A Double-Edged Sword
Education plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of young people. It is often seen as the ‘ key to success’ , providing the knowledge and skills needed to navigate an increasingly competitive world. However, the educational system can also be a source of stress and frustration.
The pressure to excel academically can take a toll on young people’s mental health. Constantly striving for high grades, navigating exams, and meeting societal standards can leave little room for creativity and self-exploration. Sadhguru emphasizes that it’s not enough to go through the motions of life—youth must fully engage with the opportunities in front of them. They must balance achievement with personal well-being, ensuring that their pursuit of education also supports their growth as individuals.
The cost of higher education presents another challenge. Many young people find themselves burdened with student loans before they even enter the workforce. This financial strain can limit their ability to pursue their passions and achieve their goals.
Mental Health: The Silent Struggle
In Kenya, mental health issues among youth are also a significant concern. According to a recent survey, over 44.3% of adolescents reported experiencing a mental health problem in the past 12 months, with 12.2% meeting the criteria for a mental disorder. Additionally, 45.9% of Kenyan adolescents showed clinically elevated depression symptoms, and 37.99% exhibited clinically elevated anxiety symptoms.
Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression are increasingly common among today’s youth. The pressures of modern life – academic, social, and financial – can have a significant impact on a young person’s mental well-being. Despite this, mental health is often overlooked or stigmatized.
The stigma surrounding mental health can make it difficult for young people to seek help. Sadhguru points out that the greatest obstacle in life is often one’s own mind. He asks, “How profound, extreme, and beautiful is my experience of life?” This question encourages young people to reflect on their inner experiences and find a balance between external achievements and internal well-being.
Breaking down the barriers that prevent young people from addressing their mental health is crucial. Society must create environments where young people feel safe to express their struggles and receive the support they need.
Embracing the Journey
Youth is a transformative period in life. It is a time of discovery, growth, and self-realization. Despite the challenges of identity formation, societal expectations, and the quest for independence, it offers opportunities for building resilience and strength. Sadhguru’s teachings provide a guiding framework for navigating these complexities. He encourages young people to see life as a profound and fleeting experience. Youth is about finding your path in life, embracing the journey with all its ups and downs, and rising to the challenges. But it’s also largely about the people around us (Parent, Guardians, Friends). Franklin D. Roosevelt said it best, “We cannot always build the future for the youth, but we can build our youth for the future”. The future belongs to the youth, and with the right support and encouragement, they have the power to shape it in ways we can only imagine.