Write to Win: What is one thing that most teenagers don’t worry about but really should? (Round 2)
- Our writing contest starts with 10 students, who are eliminated one at a time based on your votes and YP editors’ picks – who will you choose?
- This week, contestants explain the things they think more young people should be cautious of
What issue makes you feel like this? Photo: ShutterstockRead the responses to this week’s Write to Win prompt, and choose the answer you like most. Based on your votes and YP editors’ picks, we will eliminate one contestant.
Tulip: One thing that teenagers often underestimate is the importance of interpersonal skills. In the digital age, where so much communication occurs through screens, face-to-face interactions and effective communication can sometimes be overlooked. These skills are valuable in social settings, academic settings, and future career opportunities. By investing in interpersonal skills, we can enhance our ability to connect with others.
Sunflower: As a teenager in this digitalised world, I’ve come to realise how my digital footprint can shape my future, especially as I started thinking about university and beyond. It’s more than fun selfies and memes; it’s a virtual record open to colleges and future employers. An ill-judged post can haunt us later, impacting opportunities we’ve not even thought about yet. It’s crucial we think before we post, set privacy controls, clean up our online presence, and respect others on social media. We’re not just kids online; we’re future adults building our reputations.
Lotus: One thing that teenagers often overlook is oversharing on the internet. Although you might enjoy sharing personal experiences with others via social media platforms, some things are meant to be concealed for safety reasons. Teenagers put themselves at risk of revealing too much because of excessive posting on the internet, which can make them vulnerable to manipulation, cyberbullying, and sometimes even kidnapping and identity fraud!
Marigold: It is a familiar occurrence: ceding sleep to finish a lengthy assignment. Busied by the myriad of concerns of the present, it is common - expected, even - for teenagers to pull all-nighters. As such, sleep dwindles. Breakfast lies untouched. Screen time climbs, then climbs some more. With so much on their plates, teenagers tend to overlook the importance of their physical well-being. However, staying healthy remains crucial for long-term happiness and productivity.
Jasmine: In the whirlwind of studies, relationships and extracurricular activities, teenagers often overlook tending to their mental health. We are all burdened with glorious purpose, upholding the hopes and expectations of others and ourselves. What about our emotions, our right to feel authentically? Let’s break the taboo surrounding mental health and offer up a steadfast shoulder as we hoist each other to new heights.
Rose: Online privacy. Social media platforms have become a worldwide trend, but little do teens know that posting personal details could lead to identity theft. Numerous traps covertly steal personal data via suspicious links or hidden files online. However, with the atmosphere of sharing our lives and the mentality of taking chances, teens tend to focus on the joy of sharing while overlooking the importance of protecting personal data.
Daffodil: In Hong Kong, students usually have an intensive schedule, so they don’t have spare time for exercise. Nevertheless, is studying more important than having a healthy body?
Lack of exercise makes it easier for teenagers to get sick. Moreover, they may live with obesity or even die. These examples show that keeping our bodies healthy is important for teenagers.
These examples show that keeping our bodies healthy is important for teenagers. We should raise awareness on this topic and encourage teens to prioritise their physical health.
Lily: Today’s adolescents are oblivious to their nocturnal sleep habits. Most stay up until 2 or 3am due to their relentless studies, social engagements, or dislike for sleep. However, late-night sleeping can have a variety of consequences, like poor concentration and increased risk of chronic diseases. With these detrimental effects, should we still overlook being bedtime procrastinators until midnight?
Lavender: Nowadays, teenagers spend most of their time on academics. The only thing that makes them feel relaxed is watching their phone. As a result, they spend less time on exercise and caring about their health. Obesity has become a serious problem among teenagers. Therefore, teens should really be more aware of their physical health.