13 Life Lessons for Teens by Colin from Yale University

Introduction

• Target Audience: 13 to 18-year-olds
• Colin: Yale University student, Computer Science
• Purpose: Share 13 life lessons for teenagers

Lesson 1: Ignore What Everyone Your Age Is Doing

• Most peers compare themselves with same-age individuals
• Befriend older students (10th or 11th grade)
• Ask for tips on classes from those who've taken them
• People are usually happy to help

Lesson 2: Stop Worrying About What Others Think

• High school students are busy with their own lives
• There's zero pressure; no one really cares until you're successful
• Start creating - YouTube channel, song, or online business
• Develop inner confidence and enjoy solitude
• Clarity and creativity come from solitude

Lesson 3: Get Physically Stronger

• Lift weights, tennis, swimming, running
• Consistency is key, having fun with a friend is a bonus
• Physical strength builds real confidence
• Benefits include better looks, grades, confidence, and mental sharpness

Lesson 4: Stay Close with Kind People

• Find high-frequency, kind friends
• Invest in valuable, genuine relationships
• Best relationships are built on giving, not taking

Lesson 5: Party Intentionally

• Use partying as a reward, not an escape
• Practice self-control
• Locking in on work/studies brings satisfaction
• Develop healthy habits early on

Lesson 6: Take More Photos and Videos

• High school years are irreplaceable
• Capture memories - gym progress, study sessions, club meetings
• Future self will appreciate it

Lesson 7: Become More Interesting

• Do things others are unwilling to do
• Gain unique experiences and valuable skills
• Learn storytelling and listening
• Ask more questions, have fun conversations

Lesson 8: Develop a Sexy Hobby

• Have three hobbies: physical (e.g., gym), creative (e.g., music), cerebral (e.g., chess)
• Improves health, social life, and makes you interesting

Lesson 9: Learn High-Income Skills

• Skills like writing, sales, programming, video editing, animation, photography
• Learn for free on YouTube
• Combine formal education with self-education
• Consistent learning pays off in the long term

Lesson 10: Study Effectively for Exams

• Avoid just making pretty notes
• Use active recall, answering questions, and doing past papers
• Make studying fun with flashcards

Lesson 11: Learn to Dress Well

• Find good quality clothes that match your personality
• Avoid big labels, aim for simple and elegant
• Tailored clothes complement your frame better

Lesson 12: Build a Relationship with God

• Belief in something larger helps during low moments
• Prayer provides strength and hope
• Ask for big things; anything is possible

Lesson 13: Enjoy the Journey

• These are glory years; stay ahead of the competition
• Be grateful for everything, even pain
• Life is transient; enjoy every moment

Conclusion

• Share the video to help others
• Gratitude for watching
• Closing blessing and optimism for success