PUBERTY

Nobody’s perfect

Vasiliki Dimitrakopoulou, Artemis Tsitsika

In adolescence, people of your age are considered the most important “other person” in your life, because when being together you feel you communicate and that they understand you better. Many times you feel the need of being competent and loved by everyone. So you may sometimes think irrationally:

“For me, it is of vital importance to be loved, appreciated and accepted by everyone”

“I am worth something only if I am competent and succeed in everything I do”

“I am devastated if things don’t go my way”

These are some of our moral values and beliefs that are influenced by our parents, friends or people in general. We grew up without questioning them or wondering if they will be useful in life. However, these beliefs can make our everyday life more difficult!

For example, have you ever wondered if you’re compatible with the people you meet? It’s totally normal not to match with everyone and some people might not be very close to you, or you may disapprove of their behavior and actions. You can be polite, respectful towards them, without necessarily befriending them. That goes for you too. To be able to match with everyone, you should accept every time other peoples beliefs, and stop having your OWN opinion and your OWN personality. That way you stop being yourself… It is very important to learn to love yourself and not just value other people’s opinions. This way others will appreciate and respect you, even if you share different opinions.

Regarding the second belief, have you ever met someone that is perfect in every aspect? Nobody’s perfect! Some are good at sport, others at school, some at painting, others at music, some at dancing, others at cooking. However, each one of us is unique in their physical appearance, skills, character and personality. It’s worth learning to love yourself for what you really are and become a better person. Acknowledge and improve your weaknesses, enforce your strengths and stop being so hard on yourself.

As far as the third belief is concerned, has it ever crossed your mind that things don’t always turn out the way we really want to? Even if, despite your best efforts, you aren’t succeeding, learn to adapt and review, and revise your goals. Every effort is like a journey that makes us stronger and wiser. If things don’t go the way you wanted, be flexible and seize the opportunity.

 Vassiliki Dimitrakopoulou

Psychologist, Scientific Associate of the Greek Society of Adolescent Medicine

Artemis Tsitsika

Ass. Professor of Pediatrics - Adolescent Medicine

Scientific Coordinator of the Program "PROLEPSIS» ran by the Greek Society of Adolescent Medicine