Success Thought of the Day – 8/10/21

This past weekend I spent Saturday morning with some youth, making some new friends and hopefully lowering the average age of my tribe.

During these discussions, I am often reminded that our youth have access to tons of information, with very little of it asking them to reflect on their gifts, talents, and purpose.  It is amazing to watch them begin to engage in their journeys. 

There are three things that I have learned while working with youth.

• Spend time listening.  They have a lot to share.  Ask questions, probe, and use your ears and mouth in proportion.
• Share your story.  Don’t worry about a Ph.D. or a curriculum.  Share where you started, where you are, and the work you did in-between (“the dash”).  As they are bombarded by “highlight reels,” hearing your stories, the challenges, and the triumphs can prove helpful.
• Lastly, put them to work!  Give them things to do that challenge them.  This could be as informal as answering questions about their desired career path and mock interviews to more formal things, such as apprenticeships.  

Just remember, we reap where we sow!