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A Deep Divide In our society, monetary attainment has come to define success. Over time, the United States has witnessed an increasingly disproportionate skew of wealth to the richest individuals; in fact, between 1973 and 2007, the income of the top 0.1 percent increased by 7.5 times (NCES). Additionally, the expansion of social media provides an outlet for criticism without any concrete consequences to the author. Embedded in our society, a false emphasis on wealth as success disconnects youth from morals and incites harsh judgments on social media. Financially advantaged parents must emphasise to their children that an individual’s moral understanding of success remains independent from their economic background. In an extreme example, a sixteen year old drunk driver who had struck a car, killing four people, argued that his “family’s wealth should exempt him” from punishment (Gregoire). The accused obtained just ten years of probation, a ruling many claimed as bias from the court (Gregoire). In this case, the court perpetuates a cultural idolization of wealth. Plus, it highlights the disconnect between the wealthy and empathy for those around them. Allowing a generation of wealthy adolescents to enter adulthood with such poor moral values could create a starc class divide within our country. Though this denotes a severe instance of a lack of sympathy, it does represent a broader disconnection from feeling among wealthy adolescents (LaBier). To prevent a potential economic divide, wealthy adolescent’s must develop stronger moral capabilities to relate with others.
In addition to evoking tension in a court setting, a false perception of wealth as success can spark heated debate on social media. Research from the Journal of Experimental Psychology explains that apologies from high ranking constituents often seem superficial (Kim, Mislin, et al). This reflects the automatic judgments held against a person based upon a traditional image of
“Wealth alone does not define success” success. Further, social media viewers typically presume that a successful person has an personal incentive to come across as caring.. As such, successful individuals must take care to act as positive role models, especially towards scrutiny online. Although the successful may falter on social media, they must illustrate that their true values lie in more than just their wealth. Snuffing out controversy over success on social media will come from understanding that wealth alone does not define success. In sum, parents of morally disconnected adolescents must word to instill positive moral values in their child. In doing so, a divisive wealth gap will not grow in society. Also, social media users who bystand undue criticism must refute the perception of wealth as success. Consequently, disgruntled constituents will come to respect the true, individual character of high ranking persons. To conclude, monetary wealth alone does not contribute to a true meaning of success.
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Letter to the Editor To Whom It May Concern, I write in regards to the article addressing career paths, and in particular I would like to share my thoughts on choosing a career. When I first became an accountant, I pushed myself to the extent where my health declined, and I did not stay true to my character. But, I have now learned to balance work with leisure, and focus on myself in a positive way. In brief, a successful career necessitates a balance of work life and investing time to develop a strong character. When I first began accounting, I put all of my time towards working extra hours, devoting my myself to my job. But, I lost many friends as I repeatedly declined invitations to spend time with them. We barely spoke. Maintaining valuable friendships proves imperative to having long term happiness. Close friends provide a support system for challenging personal times. Plus, they can recognize if you have overburdened yourself, and provide logical, helpful solutions. Also, focussing on my relationships allowed me to network with new people, thus furthering my career even more. Some may believe they can maintain friendships while rarely seeing the other person. But, from my experience, though you may not have an argument, you simply grow further away. Therefore, success comes from recognizing how to divide work and personal life.
inspired to once again pursue my passions. Also, I became more outgoing in work, and began climbing the corporate ladder. Plus, I could work more effectively when well rested and not stressed.. I recognize that some young adults, especially those from a pressure intensive school environment, view time strictly as a statistic. As a young adult, I know I simply thought of it as something to spend by doing work. However, I have come to understand the benefits devoting some time away from work can have; I feel more focussed and attentive in my job than before. I hope that my experiences can help others reading this magazine. In particular, those concerned that a friend devotes too much time working should reach out and urge the friend to take a break. After a while, their mental health and productivity will increase by reliving the constant burden of work. Also, ambitious individuals who overlook themselves must draw their intention to themselves. In doing so, they will ultimately feel more balanced, and consequently become more successful. In summation, a strong dedicated to your work will take you far, but maintaining healthy personal relationships will ensure a true feeling of success. Best Regards, Anne White
In addition, I felt the most successful when focusing my energy towards myself. By reminding myself of the importance of my career to me, I became able to extend my work into more meaningful avenues. I became
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Managing Mental Health for Success Mental health researchers have begun to explore the connection between maintaining a positive mentality and long term success. In the early twentieth century, medical knowledge focussed upon the most extreme cases of mental illness, with the elderly composing the majority of the treated population (Cross). However, today the medical community has a much better understanding mental health in a person’s everyday life (“Untreated Depression”). In particular, efforts have focussed on adults. Henceforth, recognizing the importance of mental health as an adolescent, and developing a strong sense of purpose among adults, leads to future success. The levels of stress in the high school adolescent’s daily life may restrict opportunity for future success. Last year, one third of adolescents reported a decline in their mental health due to stress (“Untreated Depression”). Inciting other health issues, such as poor sleeping patterns, mental health problems can impact an adolescent's ability to learn (“Untreated Depression”). Consequently, such adolescents may lose focus on school or see declining grades (Pietrangelo). Thus, their future opportunities, such as the aspiration to attend college, may become limited. In contrast, data from the American Psychological Association reveals that adolescents commonly perceive their levels of stress as greater than a healthy amount (“Teen Stress”). However, APA CEO Norman Anderson, PhD, explains that adolescents’ mental health still require close supervision, as such problems also negatively impact physical health (Bethune). In all, stress
may spur other mental health problems that restrict opportunities towards success. In conjunction, abundant stress can result in a lack of purpose as an adult, which prevents the attainment of success. Research by Douglas LaBier, PhD, concludes that those with a compelling concept of purpose experience “very low levels of depression” (LaBier). Over time, depression can prompt such as a loss of energy or hopelessness (Pietrangelo). In this way, one’s mentality can inhibit their ability to reach long term happiness. Therefore, they cannot achieve true success, free of negative, pervasive thoughts. On the contrary, evidence suggests that genetics may cause depression in some patients. But, for the 16 million adults who battle depression, a lack of purpose has proven a more common element (Pietrangelo). In summation, an inadequate sense of purpose can inhibit adults from reaching happiness, a component of success. As shown, adolescents with high levels of stress, beginning to impact other areas of their health, must seek aid. By doing so, they will become less likely to experience long term mental health problems. Further, for adults who do suffer from a non-genetic form of depression, developing a strong sense of purpose proves key. In turn, they can strive to attain success through a sense of happiness. Overall, stress as an adolescent should not restrict the opportunity for success as an adult.
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Doctor’s Orders Samir Q. Latifi, M.D. Dr. Samir Latifi works as the Director of the Pediatric Critical Care Unit at the Cleveland Clinic, and for an organ donation company: Lifebanc. What do you find most rewarding as a doctor? Personally, I enjoy exercising my mind every single day. I always have something new to work on, and the same approach doesn’t work for every case. What part of your job do you struggle with the most? Well, since I’m the director now I have a lot more responsibility. I have to manage other people, attend all the social functions, do research, plan meetings, and still do my regular job on top of it. Sometimes it can become a bit stressful when I have to work twenty four hour shifts every other day and take call for Lifebanc. I’ve learned to welcome the challenge. Although, I’m beginning to understand why I’m the only person who applied for the position when it opened up. Can you describe the most interesting experience you’ve had with your job? A summer about ten years ago, I had a patient emergently admitted- a young boy. His mom found him at the bottom of their pool. They pulled him out and did CPR, but he had been unconscious for a while; the water was also warm which decreased his chances. After extensive treatment, we managed to bring him back, but the outlook still looked bleak. Then, one day I was explaining to his mom the likelihood of permanent brain damage, and then he sat up, looked at us, and asked for a
hamburger! We were all so shocked! Somehow, he ended up being totally fine. But if that wasn’t crazy enough, the story goes on. While he had been under treatment, the nusn from his preschool had come to pray for him, asking the founder of their school for a miracle. Well, when he recovered so incredibly and inexplicably, they wanted to use it as the third of three miracles needed for their founder to become a saint! Anyway, I ended up having to right a ton of letters confirming it was a miracle, and I even went to the vatican to confirm her sainthood. So, now she’s a saint. And I believe the boy wants to become a priest. Would you suggest becoming a doctor to young people today? Yes, I’ve found that there’s so much opportunity in this field. You could do research, develop drugs, do surgery, be a therapist, or start a private practice. I think anyone with an interest can find something that suits them, and, trust me, you get many, many years of training to figure it out.
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Advice Column Feel free to send in any question you have to topic.mail@google.com!
bright future. I’ve always heard college will give me that. But, I’m a hands-on learner, and I’m not sure college will best fit my needs. What can I do? Hi Ben,
Our first question comes from Jenna Wood: I’m a young entrepreneur who managed to create a very prosperous business. But because I have money now, my friends call me a scrooge. I don’t want to others to see me as automatically better than them, what should I do? Hey Jenna, Giving back to others may help your predicament. Traditionally, companies put their profits back into themselves, but an increasing number of businesses men choose to make contributions to charity. Therefore, we suggest that you also donate to a charity. Bill Gates, for instance, expresses that it “feels nice to make a difference” (Lebowitz). Giving back to the community or donating to charity shows humility and a connection with the average person. Plus, you do not even need to make a large contribution as you can also volunteer your time. Further, when those perceived as elite take part in such activities, others will feel inclined to follow suite. Although critics argue that donating to charity comes across as trying to gain popularity, you still gain fulfillment by helping a good cause regardless of what others think (Lebowitz). We hope that all those who can afford it give either their time, money, or even just awareness to a good cause today. Together, just one dollar from each of our subscribers can result in thousands going to charity.
Great question, especially considering the rise in college going rates. Between 1970 and 2015, the percent of students attending college has risen 200% (NCES). However, vocational opportunities have also expanded. We propose that pursue a vocational training opportunity. Vocational opportunities range from diesel mechanic to art/design (Savion). With such a diverse spectrum, you will likely find a program that interests you. In this way, you will still continue your education and gain the skills necessary for a secure job. Plus, you will avoid the cost of college tuition. Also, with trade jobs receiving less attention, you will likely find a job easily (Savion). Although your potential income may reach the same potential as a college graduate’s, it has proven more important that you find fulfillment in your work (“Undergraduate Enrollment”). Student’s doubtful that the college experience will best benefit them should investigate the wide range of websites providing vocational opportunities. With the number of skilled workers on a decline, you may find a secure, enjoyable job (“Undergraduate Enrollment”).
Our next question comes from Ben Walker: I currently attend high school, and I hope for a
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About the Author Laila Latifi, born in Mayfield Heights, moved to England at the age of two. She lived there for seven years, developing a love of learning from a young age. In primary school, she always had her head stuck in book. In fact, each day, she read two books from the lower school library- a precedent not broken until she had read them all, and gained early access to the upper school library. Living in England also heavily shaped her enthusiasm for the sciences. There, she became addicted to visiting all the nearby Cambridge museums and seeing every exhibit. In particular, she would beg her parents to take her to the Museum of Zoology, but it seemed permanently under construction. So, she just studied the cast bones of a blue whale casually settled outside the museum. Her early school life had become extremely comfortable: performing in school plays, serving as a student council representative, starting a school magazine, and leading the eco club. But, when her family moved back to the United States after seven years, she experienced a major shock. All of a sudden, she had to focus on finding new friends and adapting to life in a different environment. At first, she hesitated to challenge herself and rarely spoke. But, she learned to overcome her shyness and push herself to actually develop strong friendships with her peers. Now, as a high school junior she has taken seven Advanced Placement courses, learns spanish, volunteers at Esperanza and South Franklin Circle, rides
horses competitively, has a job, plays musical instruments, and never has a spare minute. Since the age of seven, riding horses has shaped Laila’s character. Most striking, her commitment to the sport remains unparalleled by her competitors. The majority of teenagers competing on the highest ‘A’ circuit have hired grooms at their barn to care for their horse, and their trainer rides it daily. Not in Laila’s case. On show weekends, she wakes up at 4:30 to begin exercising the horses. Plus, she takes the commitment of training the inexperienced horses, and riding for others when they cannot. But, the determination pays off. So far, she has won for the season at the state and zone level, placed fifth nationally for the season, and won tenth at nationals. She looks forward to carrying the commitment and dedication she learned with the horses to a career. In the future, Laila hopes to attend college in at Cambridge University. There, she intends to study biology there, and conduct research in the field as a career. Laila aspires to always maintain a love of learning, keep a constant drive to work hard, and push herself to take opportunities outside of her comfort zone.
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Works Cited Bethune, Sophie. “American Psychological Association Survey Shows Teen Stress Rivals That of Adults.” American Psychological Association, http://www.apa.org/news/press/releaes/201 4/02/teen-stress.aspx. Cross, John. “Timeline of Mental Health Advancements.” University of Oregon, https://blogs.u oregon .edu/crossf13gateway/timeline/. Gregoire, Carolyn. “How Money Changers the Way We Think and Behave. “Huffington Post,https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/06/psychology-of-wealth_n_4531905.htm l. Hope. “ADHD Diagnosis.” ADDitude, https://www.additudemag.com/136_13_diagnose_diag nosis_supportive-responses_ss_136_man-climbing-mountain/ Kim, Mislin, et al. “Power as an Emotional Liability: Implications for Perceived Authenticity and Trust After a Transgression.” Journal of Experimental Psychology, vol. 146, no. 10, Oct. 2017, 1379-1401. LaBier, Douglas. “A Sense of Awe and Life Purpose Increases Your Mental Health.” Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-new-resilience/201509/sense-awe-an d-life-purpose-increases-your-mental-health.
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LaBier, Douglas. “Why Entitled People Will Disregard Rules That Others Follow. “Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-new-rsilience/201801/why-entit led-peoplewill-disregard-rules-others-follow. Lebowitz, Shana. “Twelve Rich, Powerful People Share Their Surprising Definitions of Success.” Business Insider, http://www.businessinsider.com/how-successful-people-define-s uccess-2017-3. Mayo Foundation for Education and Research. “Stress in the Brain.” Mayo Clinic, https://donjosep hgoewey.com/4900-2/. Pietrangelo, Ann. “Depression and Mental Health by the Numbers: Facts, Statistics, and You.” Health Line, https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/facts-statistics-infographic#1. Savion, Ron. “Vocational Training Programs.” Vocational Training, https://www.vocationa ltraininghq.com/vocational-training-programs-couses-list/. “Teen More Stressed-Out Than Adults, Survey Shows.” NBC, https://www.nbcnews.com/health/ kids-health/teens-more-stressed-out-dults-survey-shows-n26921. “Undergraduate Enrollment.” NCES, https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator_ha.asp. “Untreated Depression.” WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/unreated-depressio n-effects#1.
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