19/05/2024
The Emerging Adult's Journey
Part 1
Peer pressure
Peer pressure is a potent influence,
Drawing young adults into its thrall,
It lures with the promise of social approval,
But its price can be a dangerous steeple.
It leads to actions one might regret,
Blinded by the need to fit in and forget.
Oh, emerging adult, be wise and strong,
For peer pressure's pull can last far too long.
The dangers of peer pressure are manifold,
From drugs and alcohol to reckless acts bold.
One might experiment, hoping for approval,
But find themselves in situations most lethal.
In the pursuit of acceptance, some will turn
To dangerous avenues, where they'll learn.
Prostitution can seem a lucrative game,
But the consequences can be a world of shame.
The allure of peer pressure is often strong,
Leading young adults to make choices wrong.
Remember, dear emerging adult, it's okay to be unique,
For individuality is a strength, not a flaw or a meek.
Stand firm in your convictions, stay true to yourself,
And resist the pull of the peer pressure shelf.
You are enough just the way you are,
And your individuality will take you far.
Part 2
Academic stress
Academic stress can be a formidable foe,
Weighing down the minds of the young, making them slow.
The pressure to perform, to achieve, to succeed,
Can make them feel like they're walking on a tightrope, indeed.
Exams, assignments, deadlines galore,
They struggle to keep their heads above the academic shore.
The pressure to get good grades, to be the best,
Can make them forget the importance of rest.
Sleep deprivation, anxiety, and self-doubt,
Can take their toll on their health, making them shout.
And in the worst cases, the stress can be too much to bear,
Pushing some to the brink, making them despair.
It's not just the workload that takes its toll,
But the fear of not meeting society's expectations and goal.
The competition, the standards, the "ideal" GPA,
They become the yardsticks by which success is weighed.
The stress can leave young adults feeling lost and alone,
Like they're sailing in a storm with no lighthouse to guide them home.
Depression, anxiety, and self-esteem can take a hit,
Leading to feelings of hopelessness and a downward pit.
And in the darkest moments, they might think, 'It's not worth it.
The weight of academic stress can be crushing,
A burden too heavy for young minds to be brushing.
Suicidal thoughts, a dark and grim reaction,
Can arise from feeling overwhelmed by this cruel attraction.
The love of knowledge, the thirst for success,
Can turn into a poisonous brew, causing much distress.
Yet, amid the darkness, there is still a light,
A beacon of hope that shines bright in the night.
By acknowledging the stress, seeking support, and setting boundaries,
Emerging adults can build resilience and find their inner peace, you see.
Reach out to friends, family, or counselors,
And remember, academic success is not the sole measure of honor.
Part 3
Identity Issues
Identity issues can be a tricky maze to navigate,
A journey of self-discovery that's both exciting and daunting to navigate.
As emerging adults explore the world, they might question who they are,
'Am I straight, gay, bi, or somewhere in between, by far?'
Their gender, their values, their beliefs and dreams,
All come under scrutiny as they question what they believe it means.
They might question what society expects of them,
'Do I have to conform to these norms, or should I just be me?'
And in their quest for identity, they might face judgement and scorn,
'Why can't you just be normal?' they hear, as their resolve is torn.
But remember, dear emerging adult, your identity is yours alone,
Adulthood, a rollercoaster ride,
Can bring excitement, but also fear deep inside.
The pressure to succeed, to 'adult' just right,
Can make emerging adults feel lost and out of sight.
The weight of responsibilities, they come fast and heavy,
From paying bills to planning a future that's steady.
From managing relationships to pursuing a career,
Emerging adults must balance it all with grace and cheer.
But it's not just about the practicalities of life,
It's also about finding meaning and avoiding inner strife
"The journey of adulthood , a turbulent ride,
A time of growth and self-discovery, with challenges on every side.
But as emerging adults navigate this journey, they'll learn and grow,
Finding strength and wisdom as they go with the flow.
And remember, dear friend, no matter the path you take,
Embrace your journey with pride, for your story is yours to make.
Constance K Zhakata