WHY DO WE DO WHAT WE DO?

Choose 3 quotes from the readings or org websites that resonate with your philosophy of youth development. Paste them into your blog post. Underneath, write up a short reflection on each: what does this quote mean to you? How does it resonate/ apply/ speak to you?

Quote 1: “Our theoretically-grounded curriculum and approach grows from our belief that youth are thoughtful, creative people who deserve opportunities to practice leadership with supportive, professional adults by their side.”

Reflection 1: This quote suggests that with the right guidance and opportunities, youth can grow into leaders themselves, especially when supported by experienced adults who serve not just as authority figures but as mentors. The presence of "supportive, professional adults" highlights the importance of providing structure, encouragement, and real-world learning, allowing young people to take initiative and grow their leadership skills in a nurturing environment.

This resonates deeply with me because I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who not only guided me but also challenged and supported me in meaningful ways, ultimately helping me grow into a more capable and well-rounded individual. Their mentorship played a crucial role in shaping my personal and professional development, giving me the tools to reflect on my strengths, identify areas for improvement, and persevere through challenges. Because of their influence, I gained valuable insights into my own abilities and potential, which empowered me to set ambitious goals and successfully achieve them. The experiences and wisdom they shared helped me to cultivate resilience, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose, allowing me to accomplish what I set my mind to.

Quote 2: “They know who they are as youth workers and they can articulate their values and theories of change.”

Reflection 2: This quote highlights the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in youth work. It underscores the idea that effective youth workers not only have a clear understanding of their identity and role but are also able to express their core values and the strategies they use to inspire change. By being able to articulate their "theories of change," these individuals can communicate why they do what they do and how they believe their work impacts the young people they serve. This self-reflection and clarity of purpose allow them to be more focused, consistent, and impactful in their approach.

Reflecting on this and my own experiences, it becomes clear that being successful in any mentoring or leadership role requires more than just action—it demands a deep understanding of why certain approaches work and how they align with the ultimate goal of empowering youth. Knowing oneself as a youth worker allows for authenticity in relationships with young people, fostering trust and respect. Moreover, the ability to articulate one's values and strategies ensures that the work remains purposeful, grounded in a clear mission that drives positive change.

Quote 3: “‘In his TED talk, Simon Sinek (2009) argues that knowing what you believe is at the center of any successful enterprise. ‘People don’t buy what you do: they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.’”

Reflection 3: The "why" forms the foundation of trust and loyalty, making people feel connected to a shared mission rather than simply engaging in a transactional relationship. In the context of youth work or leadership roles, this resonates deeply. Young people are particularly attuned to authenticity; they are not just looking for guidance, but for someone whose values they can trust. If a mentor, leader, or youth worker clearly embodies their purpose—whether it's empowering young minds, fostering creativity, or inspiring change—their actions become a natural extension of that belief system. Youth, in turn, are more likely to be motivated by someone who leads with purpose and demonstrates that what they do is a reflection of what they stand for.

This idea can also be applied to personal growth and achievement. When I reflect on my own experiences—whether as a CBRN Specialist, a competitive swimmer, or a master’s student—my greatest successes came from when I was deeply connected to the reason behind my efforts. Understanding the "why" behind my drive for excellence, my passion for leadership, and my commitment to growth has allowed me to align my actions with my beliefs, leading to more fulfilling and meaningful outcomes.