“You are a reflection of those you spend time with and they are a reflection of you.”

- Elysia Butler

As teachers, we have the privilege of guiding and inspiring teenagers on their own heroic journeys of self-discovery and personal growth. It is crucial to help them understand the significance of the people they surround themselves with. Our social circles not only influence our actions and beliefs but also reflect who we are.

In this blog post, we will explore how teachers can use the hero's journey language to teach teenagers the importance of choosing friends who align with their values, foster growth, and nurture their true selves.

Reflections of Character: Similar to heroes embarking on extraordinary adventures, teenagers are reflections of those they spend time with, and vice versa. Their friends play a significant role in shaping their identity, values, and choices. Encourage teenagers to reflect on whether their friends reflect their values and aspirations. When they associate with like-minded friends who inspire and support their growth, it empowers them on their heroic path and cultivates positive character development.

Embracing a Different Playground: Just as heroes explore different realms, it is important to teach teenagers that it's okay to choose a different playground or friend group if their current one no longer aligns with their true selves. As they grow and evolve, their interests and priorities may change. If the friends they spend time with are no longer enjoyable or if they don't feel good about themselves in their presence, it's a sign that it's time to make a change. Encourage them to embrace new friendships and environments that nurture their growth and authenticity.

Prioritizing Personal Well-Being: Heroes understand the importance of prioritizing their well-being, and teachers can guide teenagers in doing the same. Teach them to evaluate the impact of their relationships on their happiness, self-esteem, and personal growth. If spending time with certain individuals leaves them feeling drained, anxious, or disconnected from their true selves, it's essential to make a change. Help them understand that saying "yes" to someone else shouldn't mean saying "no" to what is right for them. Encourage them to prioritize their well-being by surrounding themselves with friends who support and uplift them.

Embracing Growth and Authenticity: Heroes embrace growth and authenticity throughout their journeys, and teachers can inspire teenagers to do the same. Teach them to seek out friends who encourage their personal growth, celebrate their uniqueness, and support their dreams. Guide them to surround themselves with friends who inspire them to be their best selves, who challenge them to step outside their comfort zones, and who appreciate them for who they truly are. By embracing growth and authenticity in their friendships, they will be empowered to embrace their own heroic journeys with confidence and resilience.

Ensuring Alignment with Personal Values: Teachers can help teenagers build friendships that align with their values and aspirations, similar to heroes assembling a loyal team. Encourage them to seek out individuals who share similar interests, goals, and positive values. Help them understand that their friends should reflect their character and provide a supportive foundation for their growth. By surrounding themselves with friends who align with their values, teenagers will cultivate meaningful connections that enhance their personal development and strengthen their journey.

As teachers, we have a unique opportunity to guide teenagers on their heroic paths of self-discovery and growth. Teach them that the friends they choose to spend time with can shape their journey and influence their personal development.

Encourage them to choose friends who reflect their best selves, prioritize their well-being, and inspire their growth. Help them understand that it's okay to venture into different friend groups or environments if they no longer align with their true selves.

By nurturing their friendships and fostering authenticity, we empower them to become the heroes they are meant to be.

With Gratitude,