How to Be a Better Person

Life can be a whirlwind of responsibilities and stress, but with the right focus, you can start becoming a better person and who you want to be. In this article, we’ll help you learn how to be a better person in a number of different ways. From honoring yourself to doing small acts of kindness, there’s something you can do each and every day to better yourself and grow as an individual. Keep reading to learn how you can embark on your self-improvement journey.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Keep a gratitude journal to be more positive and compassionate.
• Take care of your mental and physical health to brighten your mood and be happier.
• Find healthier outlets for anger, like exercising and doing yoga, to redirect negative emotions.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Set goals for yourself.

1. Positive, obtainable aspirations can give you something to thrive for. Everyone needs something to live for, so think about what you want in life. Not only can striving for something make you a happier and better person, but it can also help you find your purpose. Use a pen and paper and write down the short and long-term goals you would like to achieve.^[1] Try asking yourself these questions to find and set an achievable goal:^[2]
   
   • Is there a relationship in your life you want to improve?
   • What causes or movements are you passionate about?
   • Is there a project you’ve been meaning to finish?
   • What do you like to do in your free time?
   • Making your goal to “be a better” person may be challenging to define and achieve. Instead, opt for small goals that can help you grow as an individual, like reading a nonfiction book, writing a short story, calling your mom every weekend, or helping someone in need every day.

[Edit]Practice forgiveness.

1. Forgiving yourself and others can help you improve relationships. On your journey to becoming a better person, it’s important to let go of any grudges you're holding. The past is in the past; it’s time to move forward. Allow yourself time to forgive your past mistakes and recognize what they’ve taught you. Then, forgive those who have hurt you. You may not be able to forget what they’ve done, and that’s okay, but forgiveness can give you peace of mind.^[3]
   
   • Dwelling on past wrongs can actually increase your blood pressure and heart rate, while forgiveness can help manage and lower stress.

[Edit]Be empathetic towards others.

1. Imagining what someone’s been through can give you a new perspective. Empathy is one of the first steps to being a better person because it builds your compassion. Not only does cultivating empathy help you be more sensitive toward other people, but it also helps you form lasting relationships and feel less isolated. Being empathic helps you gain a friend while challenging your perspective. Here are some ways you can be more empathic:^[4]
   
   • Avoid making assumptions about people and jumping to conclusions.
   • Imagine yourself in someone else’s shoes or situation.
   • Actively listen to express interest and help someone feel heard.

[Edit]Give back to your community.

1. Helping others doesn’t only benefit them; it benefits you too! Research shows that being altruistic (the act of promoting someone else’s welfare) improves mood and overall happiness. So, consider volunteering at a local shelter, donating used clothes, or picking up trash at the park. Even the smallest act can make the biggest difference.^[5]
   
   • Aim to practice at least one act of kindness every day. It doesn’t have to be something big or time-consuming. Even leaving a sticky note on a public bathroom mirror saying, “You’re beautiful inside and out!” can make someone’s day.
   • When you help others, you get a rush of endorphins that make you feel good. This is known as the “helper’s high.”

[Edit]Go outside your comfort zone.

1. Expose yourself to new experiences to grow as an individual. Comfort zones are great, but they can also be stagnant. Every once and a while, change up your daily schedule, try something new, and step outside your comfort zone. Trying new things that make you a little uncomfortable can broaden your horizons and open your eyes to a different perspective.^[6]
   
   • Make a bucket list of things you can do outside of your comfort zone. Then, spend every other weekend checking an activity off the list.
   • Ask friends to join you on your adventures for double the fun.
   • Experiment with a different routine by going to a different coffee shop for lunch or taking an alternative route to work.
   • Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. The impossible can be obtainable if you put your best foot forward.

[Edit]Learn something new.

1. One of the best ways to better yourself is to educate yourself. Knowledge can go a long way, especially when it comes to understanding other people’s situations. Whether you're in school or not, self-educating can help you grow and evolve as an individual. The more you know, the more perspective you’ll gain.^[7] Here are some ways you can learn something new today:
   
   • Sign up for a class you're interested in online or at a library. Maybe that’s an art class or a course on American Literature.
   • Read a nonfiction book.
   • Listen to a podcast about a topic you want to learn more about, like business, money, culture, or mental health.

[Edit]Acknowledge your weaknesses.

1. Everyone has flaws, but you can aim to improve yours. Notice how your behavior and attitude affect others. Are people generally happy or sad around you? Do friends come to you for help or advice? Answering these questions and analyzing your interactions can help you discover and strengthen your weaknesses.^[8]
   
   • For instance, if friends don’t usually come to you for advice, ask yourself why. Do you talk over them or criticize their decisions? Maybe you need to work on being a better listener.
   • The more you learn to be flexible and adaptable with your behavior, the better you can care for yourself and those around you.

[Edit]Control your anger.

1. Feeling angry is natural, but too much anger can hinder compassion. When you want to be a better person, it’s important to understand the whys and hows of someone else’s situation. Things may not work out how they’re supposed to, but that's okay. Take a deep breath and remember that you may not be able to control many things, but you can control your attitude.^[9]
   
   • Try redirecting your anger away from yourself and others by going on a walk, doing yoga, or punching a pillow.
   • Calm yourself down by taking deep belly breaths and visualizing a relaxing or joyful memory.
   • Reconstruct your thinking patterns by avoiding words like “never” or “always” to describe yourself or others.
   • Instead, try journaling or taking deep breaths to calm yourself.

[Edit]Express your feelings respectfully.

1. Using “I” statements can help you thoughtfully articulate emotions. Life is full of complex and confusing emotions, and with those emotions comes conflict. You may not be able to control every situation you’re in, but you can control your reactions. “I” statements can be used in conflicts or emotionally tense situations to communicate feelings without pointing blame. Check out these ways you can change these phrases into “I” statements:^[10]
   
   • “You never listen to me anymore,” changes to, “I feel that my concerns aren’t being heard.”
   • “I hate when you shout at the kids,” changes to, “When you shout at the kids, I feel upset because I want the kids to feel respected.”
   • “You’re always grounding me. It’s not fair!” changes to, “I feel like you’re always grounding me, and it upsets me.”

[Edit]Be grateful.

1. Practicing gratitude every day can help you be more positive. Gratitude is more than a feeling; it’s an active practice. Being thankful and appreciative of your life, no matter where you are in it, helps you be compassionate and loving towards yourself and others. Take a moment to recognize that goodness can be outside yourself and that every smile or simple favor is a gift.^[11] Here are some more ways you can cultivate gratitude in your life:
   
   • Keep a gratitude journal or make a gratitude list to highlight all the things you're thankful for each day, big or small.^[12]
   • Savor surprises by appreciating the thought that was put into them.
   • Share what you’re thankful for with others. For instance, if your brother helped you move your couch, let him know how much you appreciate his help.^[13]

[Edit]Be patient.

1. Things don’t always happen the way you’d like them to, and that’s okay! Rather than getting upset when things don’t go your way, take a deep breath and remember to have patience. It’s alright if life is slower. Try savoring these slow moments by noticing the little things and acknowledging the positives in the situation.^[14]
   
   • For instance, maybe you ordered a pizza for family game night, but the deliverer is stuck in traffic. Instead of getting frustrated, recognize that the extra time waiting for your pizza has given you more time to pick out a game. Plus, you’ll probably get a discounted pizza.
   • Another example could be that your computer starts updating the moment you want to work. Rather than getting upset, use the extra minutes of downtime to play with your dog, take a walk, or do some tidying up.

[Edit]Be yourself.

1. The best way to be a better person is to simply be 100% you! You are unique, special, and one-of-a-kind. Accepting yourself for who you truly are can help you feel happier, improve your life, and strengthen your identity. Follow your gut, do what you love, and explore your interests. The more you do to fuel your energy, the happier and more confident you’ll be.^[15]
   
   • Enroll in classes that spark your interest to learn a new skill or find a new passion.
   • Do things that are meaningful to you to help you feel fulfilled.^[16]

[Edit]Take care of yourself.

1. Sleep, food, and exercise can give you the energy you need to be better. If you don’t give your body the proper nutrition and rest it needs, you won’t be able to serve yourself or others. Stick to a regular routine that’s healthy for you, and watch how your mood changes for the better. When you support your physical health, you support your mental health.^[17]
   
   • Aim to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night to help your mind and body recharge.^[18]
   • Eat food that nourishes your mind and body. Aim to eat whole foods, but don’t restrict yourself—it’s okay to have a cookie every now and then!
   • Do a form of exercise you enjoy for at least 30 minutes every day. Maybe that’s walking, dancing, hiking, doing yoga, or kickboxing.

[Edit]Accept that change happens.

1. It’s okay if your goals don’t stay the same as you grow. The journey of self-improvement isn’t a straight path—it bends and twists when you least expect it! Because of this, your short-term and long-term goals may change as you go. This is completely normal and a sign that you’re becoming a better person. After all, you wouldn’t be adapting if you didn’t want to improve.^[19]
   
   • Try your best not to dwell on the past. Instead, focus on the present moment. Change is inevitable, but you can roll with the punches.

[Edit]Be kind to yourself.

1. Before learning to love others, you must learn to love yourself. Self-compassion may sound like the opposite of being a better person, but caring for yourself is the first step to improvement. After all, if you can’t care for yourself, how can you care for others? Try these exercises to help you be kinder to yourself:^[20]
   
   • Pretend you’re writing a letter to a friend in a similar situation. How would you talk them through it?
   • Place your hand over your heart and whisper positive affirmations to yourself when you’re down, like “I am safe,” “I am kind to myself,” and “I am smart and have a big heart.”
   • Note your accomplishments and achievements without criticism by responding rationally to self-critical thoughts. Acknowledge where the critic comes from and then prove it wrong in a logical way.^[21]
   • Look in the mirror every morning and compliment yourself. You could say something like, “You’re beautiful, no matter what,” or “You have the brightest smile.”

[Edit]Tips

• Follow the golden rule “treat others the way you want to be treated” to be a kind person.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Be a Good Listener
• Form a Spiritual Philosophy
• Be a Good Person That People Look up To

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v161439_b01]. 16 June 2020.
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/notes-self/201308/how-set-goals
3. ↑ http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/forgiveness/definition#why_practice
4. ↑ http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/empathy/definition#what_is
5. ↑ http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/altruism/definition#what_is
6. ↑ https://www.waldenu.edu/programs/psychology/resource/the-pros-and-cons-of-comfort-zones
7. ↑ https://collegeinfogeek.com/self-education/
8. ↑ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/a-self-improvement-secret-work-on-strengths/
9. ↑ http://www.apa.org/topics/anger/control.aspx
10. ↑ https://www.bumc.bu.edu/facdev-medicine/files/2011/08/I-messages-handout.pdf
11. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/gratitude/definition#why_practice
12. ↑ http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/tips_for_keeping_a_gratitude_journal
13. ↑ http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/10_steps_to_savoring_the_good_things_in_life
14. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/7-tips-for-better-patience-yes-youll-need-to-practice/
15. ↑ https://repository.upenn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1064;context=mapp_capstone
16. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/five_foolproof_ways_to_feel_more_joy_in_2015
17. ↑ https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Family-Members-and-Caregivers/Taking-Care-of-Yourself
18. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html
19. ↑ https://www.fnu.edu/person/
20. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_self_compassion_beats_rumination
21. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/making-change/201107/how-stop-the-self-criticism-and-feel-better-about-you

How to Deal with Braces

If you just got braces, you're probably still getting used to the new pieces of metal in your mouth. The first week is always the toughest, but after that, it's smooth sailing to a beautiful, straight smile. To help you get used to your new braces, we've compiled everything you need to know about managing discomfort, eating with braces, and keeping your teeth clean.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Coping With Pain

1. Eat cold foods. Cold foods can help you deal with the pain of braces. Things like ice cream, popsicles, fruit smoothies, and frozen yogurt can temporarily numb the pain. If your braces are bothering you, try treating yourself to a cold snack.^[1]
   
   • However, remember not to overdo it on sugar. If you've already had ice cream to numb the pain, have a healthy smoothie with frozen fruit instead of another sugary snack.
2. Do a salt water rinse. Mix some table salt in a glass of warm water. Swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it back into the sink. For some, rinsing with salt water can numb pain in the mouth. Salt water can also help heal cuts and abrasions in your mouth from your new braces.
   
   • Keep in mind, salt water does not work for everyone. If salt water irritates your mouth, stop using it.
3. Try over-the-counter painkillers. Painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be used to help numb pain caused by braces. If your mouth is chronically sore, taking over-the-counter painkillers on occasion can dull the pain. Make sure to only take the dosage recommended on the bottle.
   
   • If you're on any existing medication, talk to a pharmacist to make sure it does not interact poorly with over-the-counter medication.
4. Talk to your orthodontist about wax. When you go in to get your braces adjusted, ask your doctor about wax. An orthodontist can place wax between your gums and braces. This provides a barrier that can ease some pain. If you're experiencing pain, having an orthodontist apply wax at your next adjustment can really cut down on discomfort.
   
   • Your orthodontist can give you wax to use at home. To use the wax, roll a portion of wax into a small ball. Then, press it against the front of your braces. Do this with any of the braces irritate your mouth or rub against your gums and lips.

[Edit]Taking Care of Your Teeth

1. Learn to brush your teeth carefully. Brushing your teeth changes when you have braces. After getting your braces put on, learn to brush your teeth carefully. Talk to your orthodontist about how to best brush your teeth and follow their instructions carefully. With braces, you brush each tooth carefully from the top to the bottom. Shift the brush at a 45-degree angle to get both the tops and the bottoms of your teeth while brushing. Then, use your brush to brush the bottom and inside surfaces of your teeth. You should also brush 3 times a day.^[2]
   
   • Make sure to clean all of your teeth. Do not forget to brush the area below the braces. This area is frequently neglected.
   • A dentist may request that you use a special brush, called an interproximal brush, to clean between your braces. If a dentist gives you a brush like this, talk to them about how to best use it.
2. Floss with braces. Flossing with braces can be a challenge. To start, gently feed the short end of the floss through the uppermost portion of your teeth, near your gums and the main arch of your braces. Saw back and forth to work the floss between your two teeth. Then, repeat between all the other gaps between your teeth.
   
   • Be very gentle when flossing with braces. Do not press against the wire arch of your braces when flossing.
3. Make a braces kit. A braces kit can be a handy tool to carry with you throughout the day. You can bring the kit with you to places like school or work. If anything happens with your braces while you're out, you will have the supplies you need. In a small toiletries bag, store the following:^[3]
   
   • A mini toothbrush
   • Toothpaste
   • Dental floss
   • Dental picks
   • A small mirror
   • A pack of tissues
   • Some wax for your teeth
4. Brush your teeth in public when necessary. Sometimes, food may get caught in your teeth when you're not home. In this case, take your dental kit to a public restroom. Take out the supplies you need to brush your teeth or dislodge anything stuck between your gums.^[4]
   
   • As brushing your teeth in public can feel awkward, try to find a private bathroom if possible.
   • If you do have to brush your teeth in a public restroom, remember lots of people have braces. Most people will be understanding that you need to occasionally brush your teeth in public.
5. Focus on the long term benefits. It can be grating to have to wear braces. You may feel embarrassed or insecure about your braces. However, remember braces have positive long term effects. Even if you dislike having to wear braces now, remember that your teeth will be straighter and healthier. If you start to feel discouraged due to your braces, think about how nice your teeth will look when you get them removed.^[5]
   
   • Try making your braces fun. Some dentists can provide you with special colors or glitter. This can make you feel excited about wearing braces. You can also look into invisible braces.
   • If you're insecure about your smile, try focusing on other aspects of how you look. Invest in some new clothes. Change your hairstyle. Try a new makeup routine.

[Edit]Eating With Braces

1. Chew slowly. When you're first adjusting to braces, eating can be difficult. You may find yourself struggling to chew and food may be harder to swallow. Chewing slowly can help you get a feel for how to eat with your braces. It can also cut down on cuts and other injuries.^[6]
   
   • Try to make a habit of chewing a set number of times, like 10 times, for each bite.
   • You can also try to time how long it takes you to eat a meal. Strive to make every meal last 20 minutes, for example.
2. Go for soft food. At first, you should only eat softer foods when you have braces. Harder foods can be hard to chew and cause pain. Stick to things like mashed potatoes, soft fruits, soups, noodle dishes, and other foods that are easy to chew.^[7]
   
   • This can be frustrating, but remember it's only temporary. The longer you have braces, the more comfortable you will be eating with them. Eventually, you'll be able to enjoy a wide variety of foods even though you have braces.
3. Avoid certain types of foods. Some foods should be mostly avoided while you have braces. Certain types of chewy or sticky foods can easily stick to your braces. Even after you've adjusted to your braces, you should still avoid the following:
   
   • Gummy snacks
   • Foods with tough textures, like bagels and apples
   • Corn on the cob
   • Hard snacks like pretzels and nuts
   • Chicken wings, beef jerky, and wings
   • Pizza crusts
   • Pickles
   • Bubble gum
4. Have patience. At first, it can be frustrating not to enjoy the foods you love. However, remember to have patience. With time, people are able to adjust to their new braces. As pain decreases, and you get more comfortable chewing, you can enjoy a wider variety of foods while wearing your braces.^[8]
   

[Edit]Reader Videos

[Edit]Tips

• If you play flute or any brass instrument, but especially trumpet, playing will chafe the inside of your lips and make them quite sore for a while. Usually, however, this goes away after you practice for a week or two and you'll feel fine. Try to avoid using wax when you play, however, as it will just lengthen the time it takes you to get used to playing with braces.
• Never eat hard food. It can cause pain and it would be difficult to chew. Go for soft and healthy eating. It can be mashed potato, oatmeal, then some soft fruits. Sometimes you can have ice cream, not always.
• Don't forget to go to your regular dentist check-ups (as well as your orthodontist appointments) every six months.
• If you were told to wear elastics on your brace, do so. Always, or as instructed.
• Brush your teeth every morning and night, and floss. If you don't, you can cause irritation to your gums and bad breath.
• Once getting a new wire be sure to take a minute to see if anything is rubbing against your mouth.
• Although Ibuprofen is a great painkiller, it may slow down the process of shifting your teeth. Be sure to ask your orthodontist before taking such medication.
• Take an Advil or other pain reliever 10 minutes before putting your braces on.
• Swishing strong, minty mouthwash around in your mouth can help with the pain.
• Eat cold foods like ice cream and do many fun activities! It will make you stop thinking about pain!
• It is recommended to use a water pick for cleaning your braces. The cheap ones off Amazon work fine.
• Try your best not to break your brace as, depending on which orthodontist you go to, you could have to keep it on for even longer!

[Edit]Warnings

• Follow what your orthodontist says, as this can possibly speed up your treatment time.
• Avoid fiddling with any part of your brace. This could cause damage.
• If you’ve been given small elastic bands to wear on your brace, wear them 24 hours a day or for the period of time you were told to keep them on.
• Thumb sucking is not allowed with the brace - stop it or you’ll cause issues with your treatment and you may have to keep that brace on for longer.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Care for Your Teeth
• Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda
• Enjoy Being a Teenager
• Clean Your Retainer
• Eat Food With New or Tightened Braces
• Be Happy with Braces

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.dentakit.com/howtoeatwide.html
2. ↑ [v161371_b01]. 21 April 2020.
3. ↑ http://www.archwired.com/4-Living_with_braces_on_your_teeth.htm
4. ↑ http://www.archwired.com/4-Living_with_braces_on_your_teeth.htm
5. ↑ https://childdevelopmentinfo.com/child-teen-health/dental_information/teens-braces/#.WOV_S2TytPM
6. ↑ http://www.dentakit.com/howtoeatwide.html
7. ↑ http://www.dentakit.com/howtoeatwide.html
8. ↑ http://www.dentakit.com/howtoeatwide.html

How to Become a Pilot

Becoming a pilot takes years of education, training, and licensure. Preparing early will help you know what to expect and plan out your career map beforehand. For the best-paying piloting careers, you will need at least ten years of experience to qualify. Work hard and practice often to meet the requirements for a piloting career.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Getting Licensed

1. Get your medical certificate. Passing a physical examination requires several parts. First, you will need to fill out an online application and answer information about your demographics and medical history. Then, you will need to visit a doctor who can validate your physical health in multiple aspects (including height/weight, vision, mental health, and other areas).^[1]
   
   • You will have a choice between applying for a first-class, second-class, or third-class medical examination. The first class is required for future airline pilots. Second class is required for commercial pilots. The third class is the least restrictive and is required for student licensure.
   • If you don't pass your physical examination, all is not lost. You may be able to fix it with treatment. For example, deaf pilots can obtain aircraft certification with an exemption for flights requiring radio communication. People with other disabilities may be eligible for restricted licensure.
2. Get your student pilot license. After you have received your medical certificate, you can qualify for a student pilot license. This will allow you to fly in less restrictive situations with your instructor and work towards full licensure.
   
   • Student pilots must be able to read, write, and understand English to answer radio calls from fellow pilots. If English is your second language, learn the language thoroughly before you apply.
3. Pursue further certification. Depending on your goals as a pilot, you may want further certification to qualify you for certain jobs. The FAA offers certification in a variety of areas, such as flight instructor certification or multi-engine plane certifications. U.S. Military pilots are given an aviator badge that signifies special certification and ranking.
   
4. Gain flying hours. To earn a license, a pilot-in-training needs to earn at least 250 hours of flight time. You can log these hours via flight school, military training, or practicing with an FAA-certified instructor.
   
   • After you gain your license, you will need additional flying hours before you are qualified for more pilot jobs (like working at a commercial airline). Many pilots work as flight instructors to gain more flying hours after graduation.
5. Pass the written exam. To become a licensed pilot, you will need to pass a written exam that includes safety information and a skills test. Your written exam will be observed by an FAA-certified instructor. Study beforehand and get plenty of sleep the night before so you're prepared when your test date comes.
   

[Edit]Finding Employment

1. Seek a variety of job opportunities. A broad variety of jobs are available for flight school graduates, depending on how many flight hours you've completed. You can work for emergency services, air shows, firefighting or forestry organizations, or as a flight instructor while you're gaining your hours.
   
   • Different pilot jobs will require more or fewer hours and experience. If you know what kind of pilot job you want, know the requirements and qualifications needed to obtain that job.
   • Some pilots also take engineering jobs with airlines. If you're interested, study engineering as an undergraduate to gain relevant knowledge. You will also need to get a separate engineering license to work with commercial airlines.
2. Consider employment with the military. There are over 150 flying careers available in the U.S. Air Force, with each requiring different enlistment qualifications. Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to know which careers you're qualified for.^[2]
   
   • If you're in a hurry to find a job, ask to be put on the "quick ship" list. If any recruits drop out, you will be called in to take their place.
3. Gain enough hours to become a commercial air pilot. For many pilots, their ultimate goal is to work at a commercial airline. You will need 1500 hours of flight time to be hired by a commercial airline, but most major airlines prefer at least 3000 hours.
   
   • Most airline companies will also require their applicants to pass a psychological and intelligence exam.
   • New airline pilots often start as first officers in regional airlines, where they can gain experience flying passengers in all weather conditions. Later, you can qualify for better, higher-paying positions.
4. Achieve seniority for more opportunities. Advancement in most airline jobs is dependent on seniority. After 1-5 years, pilots can qualify for first officer positions. After 5-15 years, first officers can then advance to captain. Seniority will help you gain preferred flight assignments and take time off for weekends or holidays.
   
   • Beyond captainship, experienced pilots can also advance to chief pilot, director of aviation, and other positions depending on where they work.

[Edit]Gaining Education

1. Graduate high school. To enter flight school in the U.S. (and likely elsewhere, such as Australia), you will need your high school diploma. Study hard in school, and consider taking physics or mathematics courses to prepare early. If you do not have your high school diploma, earn a General Education Development (GED) certificate.^[3]
   
   • Some flight instructors offer flying courses to teenagers as young as 16. Call local flight instructors to ask what their policies are. You may be able to get a head start in your training.^[4]
2. Consider joining the military. If you're on the fence about serving, joining the military can be a great way for you to receive flying lessons and gain hours. In the United States, the Air Force, Navy, National Guard, and Coast Guard offer flight training. Once you return to civilian life, you will already have flying hours under your belt.
   
   • To join the U.S. military, you must be at least 18 years old. If you are 17, you may join with parental consent.^[5]
3. Complete your bachelor's degree in aviation or a related discipline. Although not required for every pilot job, most flight schools or employers prefer that an applicant has completed four years of college education. Some colleges offer degrees in aeronautics or aviation. If yours does not, pursue a degree in engineering, mathematics, or physics.^[6]
   
   • Take liberal arts or humanities courses while you're in college. Flight school admissions offices look for applicants with a balanced education.
4. Take flight training classes. If your college degree did not involve aviation, you will need to take flight classes from an instructor certified with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA recommends that pilots do not apply for licensure until they have gained enough experience to complete a cross-country flight solo.^[7]
   
   • Be aware that licensure requires significant experience and that you will be more likely to pass with extensive training.^[8]
5. Go to flight school. There are two major types of flight school: Part 61 training and Part 141 training. Part 61 is the most common type: it is flexible, adjusted by instructors to fit personal needs, and allows you to go at your own pace. Part 141 training is structured and goes at a faster pace, and the lesson plans are more detailed.
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Becoming a pilot is a stressful job, as you hold the safety of your passengers in your hands. You will need to pursue constant training and examination, drug and alcohol tests, difficult hours, and huge liability. Think before choosing this career.
• Poor eyesight doesn't necessarily disqualify you from being a pilot. As long as you can see well with glasses or contacts, you can pass the medical exam. You may also consider getting eye surgery, if applicable in your situation.
• Long absences from home is part of the job for pilots. Keep this in mind, especially if you struggle with spending extended time away from your family.
• This article primarily focuses on the process of becoming a pilot in the United States. The steps you need to take may vary depending on which country you're in.

[Edit]Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about becoming a pilot, check out our in-depth with [v162249_b01].

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://flightphysical.com/medical-exam
2. ↑ http://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/asvab/asvab-and-air-force-jobs.html
3. ↑ http://learn.org/articles/What_Education_Do_You_Need_to_be_an_Airline_Pilot.html
4. ↑ [v162249_b01]. 4 November 2022.
5. ↑ http://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/join-the-military-basic-eligibility.html
6. ↑ http://www.degreequery.com/degree-need-become-pilot/
7. ↑ https://www.faa.gov/pilots/training/
8. ↑ https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/training/pilot_tips/

How to Save Money as a Kid

Saving money can be really hard when you're a kid. There's always something fun to buy, especially when it can be hard to get money in the first place. If you really want to save money, though, it will be easier if you set a specific goal for yourself, make smart spending decisions, and look for ways to earn extra money in your free time!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making a Savings Plan

1. Set a specific goal for how much you want to spend. Saving your money will be a lot easier if you have a particular amount in mind.^[1] Are you saving up for something? Setting a goal will help you stay motivated, especially as you get closer to reaching that goal!^[2]
   
   • For example, if you want to buy a bike, your goal might be enough money to buy the bike, plus the price of a helmet and any other safety gear you need.
   • Even if your goal is just to save as much money as you can, you can still set milestone goals. For instance, you might set a goal that you'll reward yourself with ice cream every time you save $100.
   • If you're saving for a specific item, don't forget to account for the cost of sales tax, which is an extra charge added on to the price of almost anything you buy. Ask your parents how much sales tax is charged in your area.
2. Keep your money somewhere safe, like a piggy bank in your closet. If you want to save money, you need to put it somewhere where it can't be lost or stolen. It's also a good idea to keep it somewhere out of sight, since you won't be as tempted to spend it if you aren't constantly looking at it!^[3]
   
   • Don't keep all of your money in your wallet, since it's too easy to accidentally lose track of it while you're out somewhere. Instead, put your money into a piggy bank, an envelope, or even a shoebox, and keep it in a secure spot, like your closet or your dresser.
   • Put your money in the same place every time so you don't forget where you're keeping it!
   • Don't tell people where you keep your money or how much you have saved, unless it's someone you really trust, like your parents. That way, no one will be tempted to help themselves to your hard work's payment!
3. Make a chart to keep track of how much you have saved.^[4] Once you set your goal, draw a long rectangle with $0 at one end and your savings goal at the other. Mark lines along the chart that represent $5 or $10. Every time you add money to your savings, color in the rectangle or use stickers to show how close you are to reaching your goal!^[5]
   
   • Try putting the chart on your wall or desk where you'll see it often. This will help you stay motivated to keep saving!
   • You can even decorate your chart with pictures of what you're saving for! If you're saving for a new bike, for instance, draw or paste a picture of a bike onto your chart to help keep you focused on what you really want.
   • If you have a smartphone or a tablet, you can even download a savings app like iPiggiBank or PiggyBot to help you keep track of your savings!^[6]
4. Put money in separate containers if you're saving for more than one thing. If you have more than one savings goal, like you want to put a little money aside for a video game, but you also want to save money for a trip to Magic Mountain, try dividing your savings up. For instance, you could use a smaller jar for the video game and a larger container for your trip.^[7]
   
   • In this case, if you get $15 to put in your savings, you might put $5 in the smaller jar toward the video game you want, and $10 in the bigger jar for your trip!
   • You can even have a third jar or envelope for money that you can spend whenever you want to!

[Edit]Spending Less Money

1. Put your money up right away so you'll be less tempted to spend it. Whenever you get money, whether it's allowance, money you earned, or a special gift, you should put it into your savings as soon as possible.^[8] That way, you'll be less inclined to think of it as being available to spend, and you'll be less likely to just buy something impulsively.^[9]
   
   • If you know ahead of time that you're going to get money, plan how much is going into savings before you ever see any cash. Then when you do see the money, you'll just see how much closer you are to your goal!
   • You don't have to put all of your money in savings. If you're trying to reach your goal very quickly, you might decide to only keep out about 10-20% for spending money. (In that case, if you get $20, you might keep $2-$4 for yourself and put the rest in savings.)
   • If you're focused more on saving long-term, you might decide that 50% of whatever you make will go into your savings, and the other 50% will be for you to spend however you want.
2. Ask yourself if you really want something before you buy it. When you're trying to save money, remember that every penny counts. Any time you're about to spend money, take a second to think about whether what you're buying is more important to you than what you're saving money for.^[10]
   
   • If you think about your savings goal every time you're about to spend money, you might realize that you don't need to spend as much money as you normally do. This will help you save much faster!
3. Find free things to do for fun. Having fun doesn't have to cost a lot of money, especially when you're a kid! Instead of going to the movies or paying to get into a skating rink, try going to the park and playing flag football with your friends, or go on a scavenger hunt in your neighborhood!^[11]
   
   • For other fun free things to do, you could try going to the library, playing games online, or drawing a picture!
4. Bring snacks and drinks from home instead of buying them out. Buying snacks and sodas might be fun at the time, but that feeling only lasts for a minute. It might not seem like a lot of money, but buying snacks can really add up over time. Instead of buying snacks from a convenience store or concession stand, try bringing drinks and snacks from home when you go somewhere, so you won't have to spend any money if you get hungry or thirsty.^[12]
   
   • Instead of buying a can of soda for $1.50, for example, you could bring a refillable water bottle with you wherever you go, and fill it up whenever you see a water fountain.
5. Tell someone else that you're trying to save money. This is called "accountability," and it works because then you have someone else who can help you stay on track. If you feel tempted to save money, they can help remind you about your goal.^[13]
   
   • If you tell your parents that you're trying to save money, they might be more inclined to pay you to do extra chores or odd jobs around the house.
   • If you tell your best friend, they might remind you that you'd rather have the shoes you've been saving for than a candy bar after school.
6. Don't take much money with you when you go places. Saving money doesn't necessarily mean that you can't ever spend it. However, to keep from spending more money than you intended to, set aside a portion of your money that you can use for spending cash, and only take a little with you if you're going somewhere.^[14]
   
   • For example, if you're going to the movies with a group, bring enough money for your ticket and, if you want, a few extra dollars for spending money. If you have any change left over, though, bring it home and put it with the rest of your savings!

[Edit]Earning More Money

1. Ask your parents for an allowance. It can be really hard to earn money when you're a kid, especially before you're old enough to have a job. If you don't already get an allowance, this might be a good time to ask your parents if they can start giving you one. Even if they only give a few dollars a week, it will add up if you're putting it into savings!^[15]
   
   • Find a time when your parents aren't busy, and ask them if you can talk to them. Then, say something like, "I've been doing my chores and trying hard in school, and I was wondering if I could start getting an allowance."
   • If your parents can't give you an allowance, try to be understanding. If you're mature about it, they might be more inclined to give you money for odd jobs when they do have a little extra on hand.
2. Negotiate for your parents to pay you for extra chores. If you notice that there are things to be done around your home, try asking your parents if they'll pay you to do them. This will show them that you're really serious about trying to find ways to earn money, and it will also help get things tidied up!^[16]
   
   • For instance, you can offer to rake leaves for $10 if you notice that a lot have collected in your yard, or you can ask your parents if they'll give you $5 if you clean out the refrigerator.
   • Try to keep your prices reasonable to increase the chances that your parents will say yes. Also, try very hard to do a good job. If your parents have to clean up behind you, they'll probably say no next time.
   • If you have siblings, offer to do their chores for them in exchange for money!
3. Help your neighbors with odd jobs if they need it. In addition to asking your parents about odd jobs you can do, you could also reach out to your neighbors. This might include doing yard work for them, shoveling their driveway if it snows, washing their car if it's dirty, or helping them clean their house.^[17]
   
   • It's important to be safe! Only talk to your neighbors if they're someone you already know, and never go inside someone else's house unless your parents know where you're going.
4. Start a business like a lemonade stand if you like selling things. Selling lemonade, candy, or baked goods can all be good options for businesses when you're a kid. Have your parents take you to the store so you can buy the supplies you need. Then, set up a table near the edge of your yard and sell your items at a profit.^[18]
   
   • If you want to sell candy, buy it at a discount store, then sell it for more than you paid.
   • If you try to set up your stand near another business or on someone else's property, you'll need to get permission from the owner first.
5. Make and sell your own crafts if you're creative. If you know how to sew, crochet, paint, or build things, you can turn those skills into cash! You can either take your items to a craft fair or you can try listing them on an online craft site like Etsy or Craftsy.^[19]
   
   • If you're selling online, you may need to get your parents' help setting up your site, since you'll probably need to have a bank account where your payments can be deposited.
6. Babysit if you like kids and you're very responsible. Babysitting is another popular way for kids to make money. If you like being around kids, you're responsible, and you're old enough to stay at home by yourself, you could babysit smaller kids for a few hours at a time so their parents can go on a date or run errands.^[20]
   
   • It's best to start out by only watching 1 kid at a time until you get a little experience. That way, you'll be less likely to get overwhelmed.
   • A common rate for babysitting is $10 an hour, letting the parent(s) know that you're flexible will raise your chances, opposed to demanding only one price.
   • Before you babysit for someone for the first time, get to their house a little early so you can talk to the parents about the rules and whether there's anything special you should know.
7. Walk dogs or pet sit if you like animals. You may be able to turn your passion for pets into a little extra money for your savings! Ask your neighbors, family, and friends if they need any help dog-walking. Also, if someone you know is going out of town, you could earn money by watching their pet for them.^[21]
   
   • Before you walk a dog, make sure that the dog isn't too strong for you. If you can't control the dog, it could get away from you if it gets excited while you're walking it.
   • Sometimes pet-sitting will involve keeping the animal at your house, but for some animals, you might just need to go to the house once or twice a day to make sure they have food and water and their space is clean. The pet owner will give you specific instructions.

[Edit]Tips

• If you receive $50 or so for your birthday or for Christmas, try to take only ten percent of the money to put in your wallet and the rest in your piggy bank or money jar. Keep doing that whenever you receive money and before you know it, you will have saved a ton of money.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Get Children to Save Money
• Earn Pocket Money
• Use an App to Budget While Grocery Shopping
• Create an Excel Spreadsheet Annual Budget

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v161484_b01]. 22 July 2020.
2. ↑ https://www.windgatewealth.com/six-ways-to-teach-your-kids-about-saving-money/
3. ↑ https://www.fatherly.com/gear/best-piggy-banks-kids/
4. ↑ [v161484_b01]. 22 July 2020.
5. ↑ https://www.windgatewealth.com/six-ways-to-teach-your-kids-about-saving-money/
6. ↑ https://www.moneycrashers.com/teaching-kids-save-money/
7. ↑ https://www.themint.org/kids/saving-tricks.html
8. ↑ [v161484_b01]. 22 July 2020.
9. ↑ https://www.themint.org/kids/saving-tricks.html
10. ↑ https://www.moneycrashers.com/teaching-kids-save-money/
11. ↑ https://www.travelchannel.com/interests/family/articles/free-things-to-do-with-kids-this-summer
12. ↑ https://www.moneycrashers.com/money-save-bring-lunch-food-work/
13. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jrose/2016/08/20/6-financial-advisors-share-their-best-financial-advice-for-saving-money/
14. ↑ https://www.moneycrashers.com/teaching-kids-save-money/
15. ↑ https://www.teenlife.com/blogs/three-ways-ask-your-parents-allowance
16. ↑ https://www.reallifeathome.com/ways-for-kids-to-earn-money-around-the-house/
17. ↑ https://www.reallifeathome.com/ways-for-kids-to-earn-money-around-the-house/
18. ↑ https://www.foodnetwork.com/grilling/summer-parties/photos/how-to-set-up-a-summer-lemonade-stand
19. ↑ https://thehappyhousewife.com/frugal-living/5-ways-for-kids-to-sell-their-crafts/
20. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/babysit.html
21. ↑ https://www.moneytalksnews.com/cash-with-canines-7-steps-start-dog-walking-business/