Leave Your Comfort Zone

If you find yourself eager to leave home by the age of 16, it’s time to act on that impulse. Whether you choose to attend college, enter the workforce, move in with friends, or embark on a mission, recognize that the journey will not always be straightforward. Your resilience hinges on your exposure to life's challenges.

The world can be harsh, and your growth often stems from navigating through difficult circumstances. Being overly sheltered by your parents can hinder your ability to face life's inevitable trials. While it's understandable to stay with family during tough times, I can personally attest that leaving home at 18 was a transformative experience for me.

It’s crucial to reassess your loyalties. Your focus should shift away from what others deem best for you. As you prepare to embrace life’s uncertainties, understand that delaying your departure—mentally, emotionally, and socially—can prolong your struggles. Don’t waste your late teens and early twenties; they are critical for laying the groundwork for your future.

Why Suffer Loss?

Are you weary of mourning friends and family, or witnessing other Black men being laid to rest? While we all must eventually face our mortality, it’s disheartening to see potential unrealized within our community. Tragedies occur, but it’s essential to be aware of the stark reality that longevity is often seen as a privilege rather than a norm in Black America.

In my 40 years, I’ve observed a pressing need for deeper conversations about death and violence in our communities. If the weight of Black mortality escapes your understanding, consider a visible reminder—like a tattoo that reads “Carrying Caskets” on your left palm.

Pursue Your Passion

Eventually, you may find yourself yearning for more than a traditional 9-to-5 job, regardless of your salary. Some of you are destined for entrepreneurial pursuits. This doesn’t mean you should abandon your job until your business is self-sustaining; rather, it signals that your creativity has a rightful place in today’s society.

Your unique experiences are vital for inspiring change in countless lives. Despite previous attempts to suppress your potential, emerging technologies are now amplifying voices that have long been silent.

Freelancing your talents means finding a balance in your life that will help you realize your dreams. You are the star of your own show, and there are rules to follow. Avoid mimicking the culture you observe; instead, dedicate yourself to your passions—whether that’s teaching, writing, creating, or hustling. Remember, you possess multiple gifts.

Be Responsible with Relationships

While the thrill of romance is enticing, it's vital to approach relationships with caution. Engaging in sexual activities without protection can lead to life-altering consequences. Before introducing a new life into the world, ensure you are financially and emotionally prepared.

Avoid the pitfalls of recklessness in your sexual endeavors. If your peers are making choices that don’t align with your goals, remember that their paths are not your own. While mistakes happen, strive to prevent bringing a child into circumstances where you cannot provide for them.

Education is Key

I cannot emphasize this enough: prioritize your education. This doesn’t necessarily mean attending college and accruing debt if academia isn’t your passion. Be strategic in your learning journey. Libraries are invaluable resources—obtain a library card and immerse yourself in knowledge for several years.

Education takes many forms; every experience is an opportunity to learn. Life itself is a classroom filled with lessons and tests. Don’t limit your education to conventional formats; consider travel or self-directed study as valid educational experiences.

If you aspire to return to college, make every effort to pursue that goal, even if it means unconventional methods like watching educational videos online. Your experiences should inform your opinions—there’s a difference between mere thoughts and those grounded in knowledge. Education is a powerful tool that will give you an edge in life.

Avoid Substance Abuse

Steer clear of alcohol consumption. While various spirits may be celebrated within our culture, spending money on drinks doesn’t elevate your status. Recognize that drinking doesn’t equate to success, and many have been misled about this notion.

Understand that alcohol may not be suitable for everyone. For some, it becomes a coping mechanism for life’s challenges. If you find yourself struggling with substance use, it’s crucial to seek deeper understanding and support.

I hope these insights resonate with you, as your journey towards success is inevitable.

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