What is it that makes being a teenager so unique and often difficult?

Recently, I was reflecting upon the fact that I find myself to be more stable than I used to be in my earlier teens, as in, I believe that after a distressing event, I do allow myself to feel the emotions that I feel, regardless, I strive for tranquility. Nowadays it’s easier for me to return to a state of peace and, sometimes, even happiness. Why is that?

I have come to the conclusion that the struggle of growing up comes from not yet knowing who you are, which makes it immensely harder to be able to trust yourself. This works in the same way that you wouldn’t trust a stranger to look after your child, for example. Therefore, the beauty of teens is the fact that you get to “find yourself” but what no one talks about is that “finding yourself” is part of the struggle of your teens.

So, what is it in knowing who you are that helps you cope with difficult situations? Stability, trust and confidence. I know what my values, my coping patterns, my expectations of other people and myself, my highs and my lows are, I am able to predict the effect of certain events on me and, hence, not be caught off guard, rather, be prepared. I also trust myself, because I know I have gotten through worse situations, which in turn gives me the confidence that everything will be okay. And you, dear reader, should also remember – everything will be okay ☺