The Wonderful Imprudence of Youth

"The young do not know enough to be prudent, and so they attempt the impossible, and achieve it, generation after generation." -Pearl S. Buck, 20th Century American Writer, Pearl S. Buck books//

Great discoveries are often made by those who have nothing to lose. As we get older in life, though, and accumulate both experience and wealth, we tend to become more conservative and take less risks. The problem is that this conservatism stifles creativity and ingenuity, and the focus of our life shifts away from innovation and toward preservation.

Thank goodness for the imprudence of youth! Young people think in terms of what they have to gain, and so, they explore, travel, discover and experiment. Some of the most amazing inventions, particularly within the realm of technology, have been made by college students. To them, life was about potential not limitation; and, in turn, they found ways to change it for the better.

It's understandable why one's tolerance for risk decreases with age - you know what it feels like to fail or experience meaningful losses. As we grow older, and our bodies change, we no longer feel invulnerable. In addition, we don't embrace chaos anymore. A predictable life is less stressful. We settle, and we stagnate. And, while it could be said that we gain wisdom, does it have to be at the expense of courage?

Great accomplishments are usually made by people who are willing to risk it all. Young people don't have a lot to lose, so they often throw caution to the wind and vigorously pursue their goals. Do you remember what that felt like? The adrenaline rush of going for it all? The joy of learning something new every day? The elation when accomplishing something for the first time?

Think how much the world would benefit if some of the imprudence of youth was not lost as we age. Your personal growth and development doesn't have to stop at 25 or 30, in fact it should be fostered throughout your life; however, it won't unless you're willing to take some risks and push yourself outside of your comfort zone.

Take some risks - try new things - get out of your comfort zone - discover something new. Sure, it will be a little stressful at first, but it will introduce just the kind of constructive conflict needed to give your development a boost.

Society benefits when the imprudence of youth works in harmony with the wisdom of experience; however, when conservatism crushes ingenuity, everyone suffers. If you're in the twilight of your career or life, take a risk - celebrate the wonderful imprudence of youth!

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