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Think Bigger: Why Young People Should Compete in "Grown-Up" Arenas to Truly Stand Out

EchoStream Talent Management

May 1, 2024

Many young achievers fall into the trap of limiting their ambitions to their immediate environment.

In an increasingly competitive world, young people who aspire to be extraordinary must go beyond excelling within their peer group. It’s no longer enough to stand out among classmates or lead high school clubs. To truly distinguish themselves, young people should broaden their vision and aim to excel in “grown-up” arenas—spaces where their skills, ideas, and accomplishments are measured against adults, not just their age group.


The Trap of the Peer-Level Bubble


Winning a school competition or earning top grades is undoubtedly commendable, but these accolades often remain confined to a limited scope. The real world rarely asks, “What was your class rank?” Instead, it demands, “What impact have you made?”


The problem with excelling solely within one’s age group is that it fosters a comfort zone. If you are the best at something among your peers, it’s easy to feel accomplished without pushing yourself to meet the higher standards of adult professionals. This mindset can lead to stagnation, where young people plateau instead of reaching their full potential.


Why Aim for Grown-Up Settings?


Higher Standards Drive Growth

Competing in adult settings—whether through internships, publishing work, starting a business, or presenting at professional conferences—raises the bar. Young people who step into these spaces must meet higher expectations, which accelerates their learning and development.


Authenticity and Credibility

Delivering work on par with adults shows that you’re not just a standout teenager—you’re a standout person. It builds credibility with professionals who can offer opportunities and mentorship that peers cannot.


Building a Lasting Network

Collaborating with professionals connects young people to networks that extend beyond their immediate circle. These relationships often lead to opportunities far more impactful than those available in youth-only spaces.


Future-Proofing Success

By competing at adult levels early on, young people gain experience and confidence navigating professional environments, giving them a significant advantage as they transition into their careers.


How to Break Into Grown-Up Arenas

Create Real-World Deliverables: Write articles for respected publications, contribute to open-source projects, or develop solutions to real problems in your community.


Engage with Professionals: Attend industry conferences, participate in adult networking events, or seek internships that require more than basic tasks.


Think Big with Your Initiatives: Instead of leading a high school club, start a nonprofit or launch a project that serves a broader audience.

Invest in Thought Leadership: Publish your ideas online, engage with industry discussions, or present your work to wider audiences.


The Reward: Earning Respect Beyond Your Years

Young people who aim to deliver work on par with adults don’t just stand out—they redefine expectations. These individuals prove they can rise to any challenge, regardless of their age. The respect and recognition they earn become invaluable assets, opening doors that their peers may not even know exist.


Final Thoughts: Think Beyond Your Age

Excelling among your peers is a good start, but it’s just that—a start. If you want to stand out in today’s world, think bigger. Ask yourself not just how you can impress your classmates, but how you can contribute to the world in a meaningful way. By broadening your vision and setting your sights on grown-up goals, you’ll not only stand out—you’ll lead the way.

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