MARCH 2024 Paying it forward

Those who are good at what they do, writers, speakers, teachers, elite athletes and others have an obligation to others. Providing leadership to youngsters in areas beyond their area of expertise is another way to pay it forward. Paying it forward refers to the practice of doing good deeds for others, with the hope that they will pass on kindness to others. When elite athletes, writers, scholars, and artists share their knowledge and experiences with younger people, they are giving back to the community and helping to inspire and motivate the next generation.

By providing leadership and mentoring to younger people these leaders can create a positive impact on their community and make a difference in the lives of others. They can help youngsters develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen field and in life. In turn, these youngsters may go on to inspire and mentor others, creating a ripple effect of positivity and kindness.

So, providing leadership to youngsters is not only beneficial for the person, but it also contributes to creating a more positive and supportive community.

 There are several ways in which the best can provide leadership to youngsters in areas beyond their area of expertise. Here are some best practices for leaders to follow:

Serve as a mentor to younger people by sharing their experiences, providing guidance, and offering support.

Participate in community programs that promote healthy living. This can provide an opportunity for them to interact with youngsters and share their knowledge and skills.

Speak at events such as schools, camps, or youth organizations, where they can share their experiences and provide advice on leadership, teamwork, and other areas.

Offer training sessions for youngsters interested in their craft. In these sessions, they can share their knowledge and skills in their sport and also provide guidance on other areas such as nutrition, fitness, and time management.

Use social media platforms to reach out to youngsters and share their experiences, tips, and advice. This can be a great way to inspire and motivate youngsters to pursue their goals.

Overall the best should lead by example and demonstrate the qualities they want younger people to emulate. They should be approachable, enthusiastic, and willing to share their knowledge and experiences. By doing so, they can inspire and motivate the next generation to achieve their goals.