It’s Great to Be Young

By Dr. David Rex Orgen – Best-Selling Author & Mental Health Expert

Youth is often regarded as a time of boundless energy, limitless potential, and exciting opportunities. But in the rush to grow up, young people may sometimes overlook the preciousness of their current season—one where everything feels possible. Dr. David Rex Orgen, a renowned mental health expert and best-selling author, believes that being young is not only a gift but a profound moment in life that should be embraced with purpose, vision, and self-awareness.

The Beauty of Youth: An Age of Exploration

Youth is often seen as a phase of life characterized by self-discovery and exploration. It is the time when young individuals are building their identity, testing boundaries, and learning who they truly are. For many, this period of exploration is filled with both challenges and triumphs, but it is also a time to develop a sense of autonomy, discover new passions, and understand the depth of one’s potential.

In his reflections, Dr. Orgen highlights that this is a season where self-doubt can coexist with confidence, where mistakes can be seen as lessons, and where every failure is just another step toward greater success. It is a time when the world is open and uncharted, and the young have the freedom to dream big without being weighed down by the responsibilities and limitations that often come with adulthood.

Dr. Orgen often points out that being young is not just about the years you have lived but about the mindset you carry. When young people embrace the possibility of making mistakes, learning from them, and continuously evolving, they set the stage for their future success.

A Time for Building Strong Foundations

Though youth is often synonymous with energy and adventure, Dr. Orgen also emphasizes that it is the foundational years of life—the choices made during this time—that often shape the trajectory of one’s future. It’s during youth that values are solidified, habits are formed, and personal belief systems begin to take shape.

In his counseling practice, Dr. Orgen regularly encounters young individuals struggling with the pressure of having to figure everything out. The reality is, it’s okay to not have all the answers when you’re young. Life is a process of continual discovery, and it’s perfectly normal to not have it all figured out yet. The key is to make decisions that align with your core values and to stay true to the things that matter most to you.

Dr. Orgen often shares how young people can build on their strengths by focusing on their mental and emotional health, seeking guidance from mentors, and being intentional about cultivating positive relationships. These elements create a solid base for future endeavors and help young people navigate the challenges of growing up with resilience and confidence.

The Power of Now: Maximizing Youthful Potential

One of the most valuable lessons, Dr. Orgen imparts to young individuals the importance of taking full advantage of the present moment. While youth is often idealized for its energy and optimism, it is also a time of personal growth that should not be wasted. The youthful years are an opportunity to build skills, explore interests, and take risks that would otherwise seem daunting in later stages of life.

In today’s fast-paced world, where distractions and external pressures often seem overwhelming, Dr. Orgen encourages young people to be intentional about how they spend their time. Instead of getting lost in short-term pleasures, youth should be used as an opportunity to invest in long-term growth—through education, personal development, and building relationships that will serve as a strong support network later on.

He also highlights the importance of taking care of one’s mental and emotional health, as it is during youth that habits are formed that will influence how one deals with stress, relationships, and challenges throughout life. Building a strong sense of self-worth, understanding the importance of balance, and practicing mindfulness are just a few ways young people can maximize their potential.

The Gift of Youth: Hope, Passion, and Possibility

Youth is often a time of hope and possibility—an age where the world feels full of promise. Dr. Orgen notes that the energy that comes with youth is unmatched, and the drive to make an impact in the world is often at its peak during these years. This passion is what drives young people to chase their dreams, seek out new opportunities, and change the world around them.

Dr. Orgen encourages young individuals to keep their fire alive, to never lose sight of their goals, and to pursue their passions without hesitation or fear. While society may impose expectations and norms on young people, Dr. Orgen reminds them that youth is the perfect time to challenge the status quo, think outside the box, and envision a future that is unique to their own calling.

However, he also advises that it’s essential to strike a balance between ambition and self-care. Chasing your dreams doesn’t mean ignoring the need to slow down, reflect, or recharge. Youthful energy is an incredible resource, but like any resource, it should be used wisely to avoid burnout or frustration.

Mentorship and Support: Harnessing the Power of Community

As a mental health expert, Dr. Orgen stresses the importance of community and mentorship during the formative years of life. Youth may seem like an individual journey, but in reality, it is often those who build meaningful relationships and seek guidance from others who tend to thrive.

Having mentors—whether they are family members, teachers, or community leaders—can make all the difference in navigating the challenges that come with being young. Dr. Orgen believes that mentorship provides not just guidance but also a source of encouragement when self-doubt arises. These relationships can instill confidence and equip young people with the tools they need to succeed.

Young people also thrive in environments that foster connection and belonging. Whether it’s through church, social groups, or sports, being part of a community can offer both support and the opportunity for shared growth.

Conclusion: Embracing Youth with Purpose

Dr. Orgen leaves young people with this final thought: Embrace the gift of being young. Take time to discover who you are, pursue your passions, build meaningful relationships, and invest in your personal development. Don’t let the pressures of life or society steal the joy and promise of this unique season. Instead, use your energy and enthusiasm to carve out a future full of purpose, and remember that the best time to start is always now.

In youth, there is a world of potential. With the right mindset, guidance, and intentionality, this period can be the catalyst for a fulfilling, impactful, and successful life.