Change a Life 2 Change the World!
100 essential things a child should know or master before turning 18
Know your strengths and weaknesses.
Understand the value of hard work and perseverance.
Be able to set and achieve goals.
Know how to handle failure and learn from it.
Practice self-discipline and delayed gratification.
Develop a growth mindset.
Learn how to manage time effectively.
Understand personal boundaries and how to enforce them.
Build self-confidence without arrogance.
Learn to manage stress and anxiety in healthy ways.
Speak clearly and confidently in conversations.
Write a professional email.
Resolve conflicts constructively.
Listen actively and empathetically.
Understand nonverbal communication cues.
Make a good first impression.
Engage in civil disagreement and debate.
Express feelings in a healthy, honest way.
Give and receive constructive feedback.
Know how to apologize sincerely.
Respect different perspectives and cultures.
Develop empathy.
Practice good manners and etiquette.
Collaborate effectively in groups.
Handle peer pressure.
Maintain healthy friendships.
Recognize toxic relationships and walk away.
Build networking skills.
Understand consent and mutual respect.
Know how to interact with authority figures (teachers, employers, etc.).
Create and manage a basic budget.
Understand how credit works.
Know the difference between wants and needs.
Open and manage a bank account.
Understand saving and interest.
Use a debit card and understand responsible spending.
Understand taxes and how they work.
Know how to read a paycheck.
Learn about loans and debt.
Start developing good credit habits.
Cook basic healthy meals.
Do laundry.
Clean and maintain a living space.
Perform basic home repairs (e.g., unclog a drain, change a lightbulb).
Use public transportation.
Navigate unfamiliar places with a map or GPS.
Manage personal hygiene and grooming.
Take care of physical and mental health.
Know basic first aid and CPR.
Schedule and attend appointments.
Study effectively and manage school responsibilities.
Understand how to research and evaluate sources.
Write a resume.
Prepare for a job interview.
Explore career options and pathways.
Know how to fill out a job application.
Develop basic computer literacy (typing, file management).
Use common office software (Word, Excel, etc.).
Know how to set SMART goals.
Understand the value of internships and volunteering.
Weigh pros and cons before making decisions.
Know how to seek trustworthy advice.
Understand consequences of actions.
Evaluate risks vs. rewards.
Think independently, not just follow the crowd.
Avoid impulsive decisions.
Identify red flags in situations and people.
Be resourceful in solving problems.
Understand how media and advertising influence choices.
Make ethical and value-driven decisions.
Understand your basic legal rights.
Know how voting works and why it matters.
Be aware of current events and major global issues.
Understand the importance of civic responsibility.
Know how to get involved in your community.
Respect environmental sustainability.
Understand the role of government and basic civics.
Be aware of cultural sensitivities.
Learn a second language or respect linguistic diversity.
Recognize privilege and practice inclusivity.
Maintain a balanced diet.
Exercise regularly.
Understand mental health and seek help when needed.
Get enough sleep and understand its importance.
Know how to protect against STDs and unwanted pregnancy.
Learn emotional regulation.
Avoid substance abuse and know the risks.
Understand body positivity and self-respect.
Manage screen time and digital wellness.
Practice mindfulness or reflection regularly.
Recognize online scams and protect privacy.
Know how to safely navigate social media.
Understand cyberbullying and how to respond.
Keep personal information secure.
Use strong passwords and basic cybersecurity practices.
Know what to do in emergencies.
Learn self-defense basics.
Understand how to call for help or emergency services.
Avoid risky behaviors (reckless driving, unsafe partying).
Know how to say “no” and stand firm.