Youth: Learn & Impact

Is there a path we can follow to better understand ourselves? Is there a foundation upon which we can build our journey towards our dreams and success?

Today, the younger generation is in search of the most efficient means to secure financial stability, lead a fulfilling life, and relish the experience of being alive. However, this pursuit alone is insufficient; there is much more to explore and learn about ourselves and our potential in this world.

What is a better world?

This is a direct question for the youth. Can you tell me, how you define a better world? And what exactly serves as the foundation for understanding your identity and your potential? Is it shaped by what you've learned from your family or school? Or does it draw inspiration from unconventional sources that challenge the norm and expand your understanding of truth? Perhaps it's a book you stumbled upon while traveling alone or an experience you're hesitant to share, fearing that others may not comprehend or be willing to explore it...

A better world is often associated with grand ideals that we are all familiar with a peaceful world where opportunities are available to everyone, a world with limitless possibilities for discovery and learning from one another, a world where interconnectedness thrives, and where everyone holds rights and responsibilities. Is this the vision of the world that you, too, aspire to see become a reality?

What do you do to contribute to a better world?

So, if we're in agreement about the kind of world we desire, how do you actively contribute to building this world in your daily life? This is a thought-provoking question that I encourage you to contemplate and seek meaningful answers to.

Do you commit to learning each day, expanding your knowledge and skills? Or do you primarily focus on acquiring knowledge that can lead to employment or increased income, enabling more enjoyment in your life?

Do you extend a helping hand to others, or do you often opt for minimal effort in a pragmatic manner, avoiding the pressures of altruism without expecting anything in return?

Perhaps most crucially, do you have the courage to say no to aspects of your life that you believe aren't working, and actively seek alternatives? Are you willing to be a source of inspiration to others, or do you tend to limit yourself to your existing circumstances, shying away from the responsibility of affecting change in your local community?

Better local community

Does the notion of fostering a better local community resonate with you? It's imperative to underscore the importance of being part of two interconnected worlds: our immediate local surroundings, where we experience the richness of our immediate community, and the broader global landscape, where we engage with a diverse array of societies, cultures, and economic networks.

Considering this duality, what steps do you take to make a positive impact on your local life? Are you actively sharing your skills and knowledge with others, working to pass on the benefits of your expertise to your community? Do you strive to create a ripple effect of positivity by sharing good vibes, and do you actively participate in initiatives aimed at enhancing social happiness and well-being within your local context?

Your efforts can play a vital role in not only improving the quality of life for your immediate community but also fostering a sense of interconnectedness in our globalized world.

Is this so ideal?

That's absolutely true! In fact, I would argue that I'm right as well. Everything we experience is fundamentally rooted in our perception of the world. You might have heard people say that a particular government is ineffective, a particular social movement seeks to exert control over the world, or that life is merely an evaluation and a divine test. Some may even claim that life lacks inherent meaning and question why we try to ascribe meaning to it.

It's astounding how many questions can arise within the boundaries of our worldviews. Nevertheless, one thing is certain: the world begins within you. It might sound a bit unconventional, but over time, you'll come to understand yourself in a way that makes you realize there's no distinction between you and the sun you eagerly anticipate every morning when you wake up.

Tips to Begin Learning About Yourself

Drawing from my youthful experiences, I've gathered some insights to enhance your learning about yourself, and I'd like to share them with you:

Listen to Your Inner Voice

Take time to actively listen to your thoughts, feelings, and intuitions. Your inner voice can provide valuable insights into your desires and aspirations.

Embrace Doubt as a Path to Clarity

Don't shy away from moments of self-doubt. They can be valuable opportunities for self-reflection and growth. Doubt can often pave the way for greater clarity and self-understanding.

View the World from a Unique Lens

Consider the world as if you're the sole observer, allowing you to perceive it in a distinct light. This perspective can lead to fresh discoveries and a deeper understanding of your surroundings.

Give Your Best to Meaningful Requests

When faced with requests or opportunities that hold significance, exert your utmost effort to contribute. Your willingness to help can not only benefit others but also enrich your own sense of purpose.

Say 'No' Thoughtfully with an Alternative 'Yes'

Instead of a flat 'no,' when faced with requests that don't align with your goals or values, offer an alternative 'yes' that is more in harmony with your priorities.

Inspire and Connect with Friends

Release yourself from being overly concerned about how your friends perceive you. Seek to inspire them and engage in open conversations that deepen your mutual understanding.

Explore Unfamiliar Books for Personal Growth

Challenge yourself by reading books you wouldn't typically choose. Keep a journal to reflect on why you might resist certain readings; this practice can help you refine your personal philosophy and expand your intellectual horizons.

Adopt a Mature Perspective

Approach the world with a sense of maturity, focusing on understanding rather than passive consumption. This mindful approach can lead to a richer, more insightful view of the world.

Foster Creativity and Embrace Imperfection

Cultivate your creativity and don't be afraid to make mistakes in your daily life. Recognize that perfection is not the goal; instead, aim to contribute positively to making the world a better place. Your uniqueness and experiences can be powerful tools for positive change.

Last words

(...) I wrote this article, and while I was working on it, I felt a bit sad. I was thinking about how to respond to the topic question and realized that sometimes I have a part of me that tries to stop me from thinking and acting. It's tempting to just wait for someone else to solve problems, like a hero. But by the end of writing this article, I understood that sharing what I know can make me feel good.

I hope this article can inspire you and make you feel what I'm feeling. We, as young people, have the potential to do more than what society expects from us. We can be leaders in our families and supportive partners for our governments worldwide.

It's all up to you. Today, right now, you can decide where you want to start on your journey of self-discovery and how you can contribute to making the world a better place.

Learn a new word in English

To "underscore"

It means to emphasize or highlight the importance or significance of something. It often involves drawing attention to a particular point or aspect to make it more noticeable or prominent. It can be used both literally and figuratively to stress the relevance or value of a particular idea, statement, or action.

Glossary for inspiration

1. Empowerment: The process of gaining the knowledge and confidence to take control of one's life and make positive changes.
2. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from adversity, learn from challenges, and continue striving for one's goals.
3. Passion: A strong and enthusiastic desire to pursue one's interests and make a difference in a particular area.
4. Mentorship: A supportive relationship in which an experienced individual guides and inspires a less experienced person in their personal or professional development.
5. Innovation: The creative process of developing new ideas, approaches, or solutions to address challenges and create positive change.
6. Social Entrepreneurship: Combining business principles with a focus on addressing social or environmental issues to create a positive impact.
7. Collaboration: Working together with others to achieve common goals and make a collective impact.
8. Advocacy: Speaking up for a cause or issue you're passionate about, with the aim of influencing policies or raising awareness.
9. Sustainability: Acting in ways that maintain or enhance the well-being of the current generation while ensuring that future generations can meet their needs as well.
10. Grassroots Movement: A collective effort initiated by individuals or communities at the local level to address social, political, or environmental issues.
11. Civic Engagement: Involvement in activities aimed at creating positive change in one's community or society.
12. Philanthropy: The practice of giving time, money, or resources to support charitable causes and create social impact.
13. Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze information, evaluate different perspectives, and make informed decisions.
14. Global Citizenship: Recognizing one's interconnectedness with the world and taking action to address global challenges.
15. Self-Discovery: The process of gaining a deeper understanding of one's own strengths, values, and aspirations.
16. Impact Assessment: Evaluating the effectiveness of one's actions in creating meaningful change and adjusting strategies accordingly.
17. Advocacy Campaign: An organized effort to raise awareness, mobilize support, and influence decision-makers in support of a specific cause.
18. Youth Leadership: Empowering young people to take on leadership roles and become agents of change in their communities.
19. Goal Setting: Defining clear and achievable objectives to work toward and measure progress.
20. Positive Disruption: Challenging the status quo and conventional thinking to bring about innovative and positive change.

Videos for inspiration

#YouthEmpowerment, #LearnAndImpact, #InspireChange, #YouthLeadership, #MakeADifference, #Innovation, #GlobalCitizens, #Resilience, #PassionProjects, #SocialChange.