Teen Take 30 is a way to help your teens take time for themselves in an effort to:
- Set their intention for the day
- Focus on their best self
- Tune out the negative voices and actions of others
- Focus on their strengths
- Realize their blessings
- Develop empathy for others
- Build resilient faith
30 Minutes a day is broken down as follows:
Take 5 minutes in the morning: Affirmations
Affirmations, also known as Power Statements, set the tone for the day. Teaching your teen to take 5 minutes in the morning to state some positive affirmations is a research-based way to help them establish a good mindset.
Affirmations are best if kept to a five word (or less) motto and It’s helpful to have them decide on an affirmation that they will keep all week for maximum positive mindset.
Here are some affirmations:
“I believe in myself”
“I am a kind person”
“I am a strong person”
“I have divine worth”
“I know who I am”
“I am safe and secure”
Take 10 minutes in the afternoon: Service to Others
Developing empathy for others and doing service helps teens get out of their own heads and circumstances to see the needs of others. Spending 10 minutes to actively look for a need and then fill a need helps both the giver and the recipient to feel more joy. This also gives you confidence in knowing that you can make a positive different to others.
Take 15 minutes in the evening before bed: Gratitude & Meditation
Taking time to actively look for and recognize what they have helps teens look at the glass as half full instead of half empty. It just may help them see that their cups runneth over! Practicing gratitude for 5 minutes every night will be enlightening as your teen records three things they are grateful for that day in a small journal or notebook.
It’s simple! Grab a journal and write 3 things that you are grateful for today.
Examples:
- Who helped me today?
- What teacher made a difference to me?
- What happened in my day that made me happy?
- How was a relationship with a friend or family member strengthened?
- What do I have or own that makes my life better?
Then spend the remaining 10 minutes practicing meditation.
Meditation is a great way to unwind, calm your mind, and reflect on your life. It gives you the opportunity to reflect and receive personal revelation.
What is meditation? There are lots of ways to do this. A simple way to start is remove all technology devices and other distractions, and just sit an breathe deeply. Clear your brain from all worries and things you needed to do that day. Just relax.
