You can predict the future of a country without looking into a crystal ball. Just observe those in their teens and even younger; their thought processes, the way they spend their leisure and their healthy practices.

In the past few months I have spent time talking and listening to children in schools and my confidence in Ghana’s future has been re-ignited BUT we have to help nurture those still in their golden years and we all have a role to play.

The wise men at the World Health Organization (WHO) do not restrict health to merely the absence of disease, but extend it to cover physical, mental and social wellbeing. We should spend the early years of our life to acquire knowledge and skill in several areas of life. If like me, you are older than 20, you may choose to double up in many areas and for those way beyond your reach pray that the almighty will pour his favour on you. Twenty is no magic number, it only gives you more time to perfect an art and also start interventions early.

I sincerely wish that I knew the following before my twentieth birthday and a whole year before that magic 21. Why do we make so much fuss about age 21?

A. Physical Wellbeing a. By exercising everyday and eating well balanced meals, I could ward off several illnesses and be able to perform at my optimum b. No matter how terrible my genes are, I could modify their effects by living a healthy life. c. If I have sickle cell trait, I should understand the challenges that may arise when I have a child with another person with sickle cell trait. Ask for Hb electrophoresis now. d. I should check my blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar at age 20 and then adjust the frequency from then depending on the outcome. e. I should know my HIV status and also learn all the ways that may expose me to the virus. The thought alone may make you adopt the right attitude. f. Ladies should get the vaccine for cervical cancer if they are not sexually active. g. Females should start monthly breast examination.

B. Emergency Preparedness a. I should know basic first aid including CPR and how to help someone who is choking. Someday it may be your wife, husband or close relative who needs help. b. I should learn to swim. 71% of the world’s surface is covered by water so there is a high probability that you need this skill. Imagine I dodged free swimming lessons in school. c. It is vital to learn how to change a car tire. Even if you do not drive, you may be in a vehicle that needs its tire changed before we can reach our destination.

C. Social Skills a. Learn public speaking, it will always come in handy and raise your “market-value” b. Learn how to handle a job interview. A job search is probably so difficult because your technique is terrible. While you are at it learn to write a sound CV or resume. c. Learn to Negotiate – the better deal is only a question or two away. No need to raise your voice when you negotiate. You have been negotiating everyday with family, just perfect the art. d. Remember names of people – it makes their hearts leap with joy when you call them by name and immediately puts them in the mood to go an extra mile for you. I am over 20 years but still terrible at names. Working on it. e. Don’t Complain – if you are frustrated find solutions. Complaining only wears you out. Remember the almighty detests complaining f. Choose good company – the people we hang out with shape our life. If a person has no positive impact on your life avoid him. Do not be deceived, you can’t change anyone only God does. g. Speak at least two common international languages. French lessons flushed down the drain happen to be one of my greatest regrets in life. Only 25% of the world’s population speaks English. It would be nice if you could communicate with at least some of the remaining 75%. h. Learn how to play at least one musical instrument, it makes a world of difference to your development. i. Do not be caught in the canker of not reading. Read often and do not restrict it to only your studies. A novel, a play and even books on gardening and cooking will position you perfectly in life.

D. Financial Freedom a. No matter what you do, DO NOT leave school before age 20. This may be your best bet to financial freedom. A handful of people may have done otherwise but do not be deceived. Hang in there. b. Learn to make a simple budget – Keep track of your spending. If you spend less than you earn and you do this long enough, you should be on the path to financial freedom c. Investing early and consistently – time and compounding interest make a world of difference. If you start early enough by age 20 and keep money stashed away, you will be ready for a happy retirement long before “the legal age” Money doesn’t spoil, it grows so dear friend start early.

E. Spiritual Breakthrough a. We should seek our maker very early in life when we have the strength to serve him appropriately b. That spending daily quiet times with God will open doors in our life. We should not only talk but listen as well c. That the only commandment with a promise “honour your father and mother ……” does not come with any “buts” or “ifs” so just do it. These are my thoughts and they certainly do not cover every area but if you manage to follow most of these before your twentieth birthday, you will be so prepared to wow the world that “all shallow observers will call you lucky.” AS ALWAYS LAUGH OFTEN, WALK AND PRAY EVERYDAY AND REMEMBER IT’S A PRICELESS GIFT TO KNOW YOUR NUMBERS (blood sugar, blood pressure, blood cholesterol, BMI) Source: Dr. Kojo Cobba Essel Moms Health Club dressel@healthclubsgh.com www.healthclubsgh.com

*Dr Essel is a medical doctor and is ISSA certified in exercise therapy and fitness nutrition.

Thought for the week – “As we observe World Aids Day tomorrow remember we can all help to GET TO ZERO: zero new HIV cases, Zero discrimination and zero AIDS RELATED deaths. What is your HIV status? Get tested!!”

References: • The ten commandments for a healthy and enjoyable life – Dr Kojo Essel • Practical tips for productive living – Marc and Angel Hack • My Life so far - blogger