Reflections on Youth: What 12-Year-Old Me Would Disagree With Today
As a seasoned SEOer at Google, it's interesting to revisit behaviors and beliefs from our younger selves. In this article, we explore the attitudes of a 12-year-old and a present-day adult, particularly focusing on the relevance of self-defense, martial arts training, and even the use of weapons, which are prominently featured in discussions today.
Importance of Self-Defense and Martial Arts Training
Using self-defense and martial arts training are crucial for women's safety, as emphasized by various experts and organizations. These practices not only enhance physical strength but also build mental resilience, contributing to overall well-being. However, when reflecting on my own formative years, the perspective was quite different.
My involvement in a Catholic girls' school during my 12-year-old years instilled a strong focus on religious teachings and academic performance rather than developing physical skills. The transition to the work world at age 19 was challenging, especially considering the need for practical skills and confidence in a competitive environment.
The Perspective of 12-Year-Old Me
Back then, 12-year-old me was obnoxiously confident and arrogant. Here’s how our conversation would have played out:
Present Me: School is quite challenging to be honest. My grades are not as high as I desire and I completely bombed a test yesterday.
12-Year-Old Me: Ha! You weakling! School is a breeze for me. I maintain a flawless 4.0 GPA and even have an extraordinary score of 106 in English. You, on the other hand, are an imbecile.
Present Me: I never seem to get enough sleep these days. Last night I barely managed to sleep for six hours. It’s frustrating.
12-Year-Old Me: Oh my goodness, did you just use a curse word? You're not supposed to do that silly! I, on the contrary, enjoyed a full 10 hours of sleep last night. Although slightly less than usual, I'll just go to bed a little earlier tonight.
Present Me: You know, girls are pretty awesome. It’s fun to date them.
12-Year-Old Me: What? Nah, man! Girls are terrible. I'm just going to become rich and buy a Ferrari. Who needs girls anyway?
Present Me: I did really well on that test, although it's not that significant. There are more important things in life than just test scores.
12-Year-Old Me: Ha! I secured the highest math score in the entire grade and all of you can just suck it. I am literally the smartest person who has ever existed. I surpass all of you. One day, I shall rule over you all. Bow down to my superior intellect!
The Evolution of Perspectives
Looking back, 12-year-old me’s arrogance and gender stereotypes are clear. Today, I realize the importance of humility and realistic goals. Gender shouldn't limit one's aspirations, and physical and mental well-being are crucial for success in any field.
Regarding self-defense and martial arts, it’s crucial for women to learn these skills. They provide confidence and a means of defense that can be life-saving in various situations. From a practical standpoint, martial arts training can also contribute significantly to building character and strength.
Relating to Current Debates
The discussion around gun rights is also significant. While not directly related to martial arts, the emphasis on personal safety and the ability to protect oneself in extreme situations is relevant. The debate on gun control and self-defense highlights the need for a balanced approach. It's important to understand the legal and ethical implications of weapon ownership and use.
My 12-year-old self would likely vehemently disagree with the notion of using guns for personal protection. However, as I've grown older, I've come to appreciate that personal safety is a fundamental right. It's important to discuss and educate on the responsible use of firearms and self-defense techniques.
Conclusion
The shift in perspective from a 12-year-old to an adult is significant. It underscores the importance of growth, self-awareness, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge and understanding. Whether it's physical training, academic performance, or gender stereotypes, our younger selves can often be quite different from our matured minds.
In conclusion, reflecting on past attitudes and beliefs can provide valuable insights. By learning from our younger selves, we can better navigate the complexities of personal and professional life.