Good Life Award - Winners
2008
Good Life Award Writing Contest
Award of Distinction Winner
Stacy Chiou
7th Grade, Watts Middle School
| Different people have different ideas of what a good life really is. But for everyone, I think the first step to living a productive and happy life is to find something that makes you happy. Happiness is something we all need, more or less. It’s hard to find, so when you find it stick to it. Without happiness, it’s hard to function properly and to do your best. You need something in your life that is constant; something that won’t change even if everything around you is. People need a sense of stability in their lives; otherwise the tiniest thing could wreck the balance. The something else you should do is to find something that you’re good at and hone your skills. Everyone has some sort of talent, but not everyone trains themselves and uses it. Chances are, if you’re good at something you’ll enjoy it as well. Once you find the thing you’re best at, show the world. Serve the community with these talents, like Dottie Yeck did. Use what you have to help other people as well as yourself. Do what you can to do big things. Make a difference. Whether your talents involve playing an instrument or sports there is always a way to change the world in some way, big or small. Figure out what you want to do with your life. Set goals; aspire to no end. Pursue your dreams. One of the most important things is to do what you think is right. Learn to think before you do things. It’s easier said than done but when you learn to do so it’s undeniably worth it. It’ll keep you out of trouble and generally decreases the stress levels in your life. Dealing with the results of rash decisions isn’t easy. A little common sense is definitely useful. But you should also learn to take risks when it’s worth it. Strike a balance between the two. And lastly, the key to living a purposeful life is to know who you are. Be sure of yourself and don’t be easily shaken. Don’t let other people tell you what to do or who you are, because losing yourself to impress other people just isn’t worth it. In society today one of the most important things to people is to fit in. But when you think about it, is it really worth it? If you attempt to hide your opinions and your differences you just lose yourself in the process. What people today consider flaws make people who they really are. If the people you associate with don’t care for you unless you change yourself to fit their standards, they simply aren’t worth it. Find friends who accept you for who you are, even if other people think they’re dorks. It’ll make you happier in the end. Finding happiness and purpose can be hard. But once you find a balance and you’re doing what you want to do in life it’s all worth it. |