Teens Have More Free Time on Their Hands Then Ever Before
A recent article by Justin Lahart entitled “What Would You Do With an Extra Hour?” brings up the very pressing issue about the current disconnect between unemployment and the way Americans spend their free time.
With the national unemployment rate for teens reaching a startling 26.4%- more than two times the national average for all ages and the fact it is the summer, teens are finding themselves with more time on their hands then normal. The question is what are they doing with it?
The American Time Survey released by the Labor Department shows that in 2009, young American’s age 15-19 spent 2.19 hours a day each week and 2.62 hours each weekend watching TV. Further, only 17 minutes each day and 9 minutes each weekend were spent reading. In comparison, It was determined that teens spent an average of 1.65 hours each day working and engaging in work related activities. Today, this number has decreased to 1.04.
Downtime is important but what happened to the mentality "work hard- play hard"? It is possible to have the best of both worlds all it takes is some time management and some innovation.
For example, with your extra free time volunteer or get an internship. You might not get paid but it an invaluable experience that will help in your college applications. Or turn your passions into impact and start a business. If you love dogs then start a doggy day care in your neighborhood. You will make a few bucks and love what you do so it won’t feel like work. Plus it makes a killer impression on your college application.
So, if you have a lot of free time on your hand go out and do something. Then go home and watch an episode of Glee to unwind. Bet you, you appreciate that television show more than ever before.
