Two of our grandchildren recently graduated from high school. One last month and the other earlier this month. They have learned a lot and will learn more as each goes to college in the fall. But there are lessons that are not emphasized in school. Important lessons.

These lessons that are not emphasized in school are on how to manage personal finances, how to avoid or overcome stress and how to effectively and wisely use one’s time. Each is an important life skill. Each has to be learned if one is to live a productive and effective life.

I am sure each reader has learned these important lessons that were not taught in school. Hopefully our children and grandchildren have or will learn these skills.

Knowing how to manage one’s personal finances is extremely important. As we go through life we learn how to create a budget. We learn the importance of saving first. Saving not only for necessary items, but also putting aside money for an unexpected emergency. It is important to understand the cost of credit and why it is advisable to use credit wisely. Students need to learn to keep track of spending and the importance of making monthly debt payments. When setting goals students must learn the importance of establishing financial goals. In establishing these goals students must follow the SMART methodology. Goals, including financial goals, must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Students must learn the importance of beginning to save early and on a periodic schedule. Knowledge about investing also is important.

Stress is part of a student’s life. I still can recall the stress I felt as the time for exams approached. Stress is a part of life, whether a student or an adult. How one copes with stress is vital. Far too often one turns to alcohol or drugs. The importance of positive self-talk should be taught as a mechanism to avoid or reduce stress. Just taking a break, doing something enjoyable like taking a walk can reduce stress. Stress management skills are important but not taught in schools.

How to productively manage one’s time is essential. Time management skills are important to all, including students. To use time efficiently one must know how to prioritize tasks. In what order must tasks be completed? One must avoid both distractions and multitasking. Work on harder, important tasks earlier when one is fresher.

Finance management, stress management and time management are essential life skills. Hopefully my grandchildren will learn these skills to help them cope with life’s daily struggles.