Question
You are advised to write between 350 and 500 words on the following topic:
‘It is best to be an adult. Adults have everything their own way.’ Argue for or against this statement.
Model Essay
The notion that “It is best to be an adult. Adults have everything their own way” is a complex one that warrants careful examination. On the surface, adulthood appears to be a time of ultimate freedom and autonomy. Adults can make their own decisions, pursue their dreams, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. However, this statement overlooks the myriad responsibilities and challenges that come with adulthood. While it is true that adults have certain privileges, it is not accurate to say they have everything their own way. In fact, adulthood is often characterized by balancing personal desires with obligations, and it is this balance that makes the statement overly simplistic.
One of the primary arguments against the idea that adults have everything their own way is the sheer weight of responsibility they bear. Unlike children and teenagers, adults are responsible for their own well-being and, in many cases, the well-being of others. This includes financial responsibilities such as paying bills, managing mortgages or rent, and saving for the future. Adults also have professional obligations, which can be demanding and stressful. Meeting work deadlines, striving for career advancement, and maintaining job security are significant aspects of adult life that require constant effort and often leave little room for leisure or personal whims.
Additionally, adulthood involves navigating complex social and familial relationships. Adults often play multiple roles in their families and communities, such as being a spouse, parent, caregiver, or community leader. Each of these roles comes with its own set of expectations and pressures. For instance, parents must ensure the physical and emotional well-being of their children, which can be a demanding and time-consuming task. Similarly, maintaining a healthy marriage or partnership requires compromise and understanding, often necessitating that adults put their partner’s needs above their own. These responsibilities limit the extent to which adults can have everything their own way.
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Furthermore, adults are not immune to external constraints and societal pressures. They must adhere to laws, regulations, and societal norms, which can restrict their freedom to act purely according to their own wishes. For example, adults must work to earn a living, which often means conforming to the demands of their employers or clients. They must also navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, manage taxes, and comply with various legal requirements. These obligations can be burdensome and limit the degree of personal freedom adults can enjoy.
However, it is important to acknowledge that adulthood does bring certain freedoms and opportunities that are not available to younger individuals. Adults have the autonomy to make significant life choices, such as where to live, what career to pursue, and whom to marry. They can travel, explore new hobbies, and shape their lives according to their values and aspirations. This sense of control and independence is a valuable aspect of adulthood and is often seen as a reward for the responsibilities borne.
In conclusion, while adulthood offers certain freedoms and opportunities that can be highly fulfilling, it is misleading to say that adults have everything their own way. The responsibilities and obligations that come with adult life often require significant sacrifices and compromises. The reality of adulthood is a delicate balance between personal desires and the demands of various roles and responsibilities. Therefore, it is not necessarily best to be an adult, as every stage of life has its unique challenges and rewards.
Word Count: 561