Exploring Youth Leadership and Entrepreneurship: Beyond Surface-Level Understanding

It is an interesting question as both of these terms have been tossed around rather casually over the years. Let me start with leadership. Contrary to popular belief, leadership is not what most people are taught. To begin, let's define what it is not: leadership is not about organizing, motivating, dressing well, having a stellar CV, or even having an impressive degree like my master's in leadership.

The Essence of Leadership

Leadership is about knowing who you truly are at your deepest level and choosing to be that person as you create the experience of your life. Too often, people let the circumstances of life dictate their view of life. True leadership involves knowing one's true purpose or that which brings one the greatest joy from deep within their spirit. Choosing to travel in the direction of that joy, no matter how unconventional or perceived as wrong by the world, is at the core of leadership.

Moreover, true leadership is about working with others so that they too can become their true selves and walk the path they have always needed to go. This is about serving oneself and others in an ethically values-based, servant mindset.

Defining Entrepreneurship

Similarly, entrepreneurship is not simply about creating a new business or idea. In many areas, it has become synonymous with this, but that is not its true meaning. A true entrepreneur takes great joy in creating something from scratch, whether it be a new business or an idea. They create, sell, or hand the creation over to others once it has been developed and then move on to another idea or business. Their passion for creation transcends any guarantees of success.

Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. Each new idea or business comes with no guarantee of success, but the true entrepreneur doesn't let this deter them. They value the process of building from the ground up, and moving on to new ventures continues to fuel their passion.

Leadership and Entrepreneurship in Youth

Perhaps in a way, all leaders are entrepreneurs of a sort. Each one must create themselves from the ground up and take steps that no one else has taken before. They are continuously creating their identity and purpose, which is reminiscent of the entrepreneurial spirit.

For youth, this understanding is crucial. By cultivating these qualities, young individuals can navigate their journey with more clarity and passion. It is not just about academic or professional success, but about personal growth and the deeper purpose that guides one's actions.

A Call to Action

Great question! I hope this answer resonates with you and helps you on your journey.

Remember, leadership and entrepreneurship are about knowing your true self, taking action towards your greatest joy, and serving others. Debt yourself to a purpose that fuels your spirit, and let the adventure of life begin.