There are many things in this life that are important to stay away from if seeking to improve and become better are a priority for you. I have compiled a list and brief description of
what these things are. In no particular order, they are the following.
Friends who do not build you up or strive to become better. Your age or position in life do not matter here. Anybody you hang out with or are associated with has a great
impact on you. Especially in high school and college, your friends will be a driving force for your success or failure. Friends who waste time, do not uplift, insult, seek to do
harm, or to pressure you into anything are not true friends.
Harmful substances. This includes anything that you are putting into your body that causes harm or that does not even help you. There is a long list of things that apply, such
as smoking, harmful drugs, addictive drinks (alcohol, soda, and energy drinks), junk food (cookies, potato chips, and more), and even drugs authorized by a doctor. Watch very carefully
what you are putting into your body. If you see something harmful, do not touch it, get away from it. Do what it takes to stay away.
Laziness. It sure is easy to sit in front of the TV for a few hours or to play a computer/video game for hours on end. There is nothing wrong with these forms of entertainment.
What is wrong is excessive time doing nothing but lounging around and being sedentary. The decay of your body from just plain sitting around is very evident. If you don't use your body,
it will wear out and become useless. Instead, find the time to go walking or running, to lift a few weights, do some push ups, do some situps, and strengthen yourself. Just plain go out and be active.
Addictive entertainment. There are many forms of addictive entertainment. This ranges from computer/video games to the rampancy of pornography in all forms of media including
the internet. I do not doubt that a lage majority of guys out there have been tempted to pursue pornography in some form, if nothing else for curiosity. The addiction that can come
from just taking a peek is frightening. I saw first hand in college, people in open computer labs looking at pornography, and I am sure the work place is no different. What a slave people
can become if they let their guard down. I would say this is one of the most important things to avoid.
People who do not have your best interest. This is kind of easy to spot actually. See if someone is wanting you to do something. Then see if this person compenstates you in
some form either by giving you thanks and returning the favor, or paying you for your services. If there is no reaction to the service you are rendering, a red flag should be waived in
your mind and caution given. Be very wary of people who promise everything and deliver nothing. There are people out there seeking to just line their pockets and without any real desire
to include anyone.
Instant gratification. This mostly relates to finances, but also relates to the food you eat and the entertainment you allow yourself to view. But I would like to focus on finances here.
Always stop and think when you have an urge to spend a large sum of money for anything. What is the purpose for spending the money? Will you and or those close to you benefit in a way
that is useful? Even look at the money you are spending every day, particularly on going out to eat. Generally there is a more money efficient way to eat than spending 10 plus dollars
for a meal. Keep an eye out on your spending and this will go a long ways to avoiding financial problems.
I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to things to stay away from. Stay away from harmful and addictive things and you will alleviate many problems people have in this life.