Mentoring the Next Generation
Posted by Steven Walden
As you recall, October is Rotary Vocational Service Month. While focusing on vocations this month, I sought out inspiration and wisdom from others. I found something from author and motivational speaker John Maxwell that is worth sharing.
In a recent book related to the topic of success, John Maxwell suggests that we look into ourselves to determine what we are passionate about - in other words, what is it that we think about constantly and enjoy doing? It can be sports, computers, or a hobby. Next, he inquires into where are our talents or strengths? What is that thing we do extremely well?
Have a fruitful week.
Yours in Rotary,
Steve Walden
Maxwell suggests that we bring our focus to those things where our strengths and passions intersect. It is there we succeed by enjoying what we do - and we do it very well. I guess this advice can be true for our vocations and our service alike. When we are looking to serve, are we focusing on doing things we are great at - and love doing it? If we are serving in areas that we love and excel in, others get the most from our service. It makes sense!
How can we apply this? Like you, I regularly mentor young professionals looking to succeed. I should be inquiring into whether they are choosing a path for their vocation that fits their passion and talent (strengths). The success gained from this intersection can be financial and self-fulfillment. When considering service, are we devoting our time to projects that we truly enjoy and feel connected - - and, are we talented in doing this type of service? Hopefully, but having this honest analysis, we can guide others (and ourselves) to success and enjoyment in their professions and in their service.Have a fruitful week.
Yours in Rotary,
Steve Walden