To quit or not to quit – that is the question: A question that thousands of teenagers seem to be asking themselves of late. Is commitment binding? Is it something to value and partake in? Or is following what you want more important?

It seems like now, more than ever, there has been a lack of commitment for teens. Kids quit things before they even get a chance to try.

In middle school, commitment wasn’t an issue like it is in high school. Kids could try a plethora of activities at the same time and get a preliminary understanding of all activities. They were allowed and encouraged to be involved and try new things. And the “if you don’t like it, just try something else” mindset is customary. 

However, as you get to high school, this culture around activities change. Activities get more serious and sports more competitive. You are expected to see things through. Signing up is committing and quitting is discouraged, except for in extreme circumstances. 

But for some unapparent reason, it seems that teenagers have begun disregarding the new wave of gravity tied to activities and carry their “I can always quit” attitudes to high school. 

So what is this fear of commitment? 

For many, there is additional pressure to do well from parents, coaches/advisers and teammates/members. Activities are no longer easygoing and can lose the qualities that made it fun. Some might feel like they aren’t suited for the activity when comparing themselves to higher performers. And for a lot of people, it’s realizing their focus needs to be on other things.

While these reasons are valid and completely understandable from an individual’s point of view, it is important to honor commitments you have made. Commitment gets you further in the long run when it comes to applying to colleges, trying to get a job and fostering healthy relationships. 

Kids are quitting too frequently and for the wrong reasons. Just because things are hard does not mean they are worthless. Just because you don’t love it doesn’t mean you won’t learn from it. Commitment builds character.

I am not saying to stick with a sport you no longer love for the rest of your life. But after you have tried out and made the team, it would be cruel to yourself and your team to give up.

So, I will ask it again: to quit or not to quit? That is the question, isn’t it? Is it more important to chase comfort or to push yourself even when it is uncomfortable?