How to Avoid Getting Into Trouble

Avoiding trouble can be a tricky thing, especially in the teen years. You face many temptations due to peer pressure, boredom and lack of perspective. Getting clear on how to treat others, who you are and where you're going can set you up for success rather than expulsion. Read on to learn how to avoid getting into trouble.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Follow all classroom and school rules. If you're unclear about a rule or wonder why it exists, ask your teacher after or before class. Rules may seem stupid, which causes you to want to break them. Finding out why they exist in the first place can help you avoid breaking them and keep you out of trouble.
2. Wear non-offensive clothing. Clothes that have offensive language, symbols or represent gangs disrupt the environment around you. Not wearing a school uniform properly also has the same effect. Causing other students or teachers to be distracted is a good reason for a reprimand. Leave such things out of your wardrobe. If you can't, at least don't wear them to school.
3. Pay attention in class. If the teacher is boring, do something constructive to occupy your time. In the end, you're responsible for your own education. Don't distract other students because of your boredom. Present your concerns to your teacher privately after class if you're having trouble staying engaged or ask to be transferred to a more difficult class. Chances are you're not being challenged enough. He'll appreciate your desire to learn.
4. Be respectful and kind to others. Raise your hand to speak when in class. If you're having a bad day or trouble at home, don't take it out on the people around you; they didn't cause the mess. Do your best to turn your day around by learning and change your environment through a positive attitude.
5. Create goals for yourself listing where you want to be in one, five and 10 years. Take measures each day to achieve your goals. Seek out a mentor who can help you stay on track and focused.
6. Question the crowd you choose to associate with, knowing that you have the power to select your friends. Make wise decisions based on people's inner character rather than outer appearance. Having a balance of friends in many social circles helps you to gain perspective on important issues and know what to avoid. If your peers ask you to do something that's against the law or even just unwise for your future goals, be smart enough to say no and stick to your guns.
7. Be sure to make time for extra-curricular activities. Whether it's horseback riding or skateboarding, everyone has something that makes them feel alive. Keep up with these as part of your plan to avoid trouble. Having plenty to do will keep you busy enough that you won't have time to participate in meaningless things.