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youth worker, youth ministry, change, world

Run the World

By Doug Franklin September 23, 2009

A few years ago, a new staff member told me he liked the LeaderTreks programs but he wondered when he was going to get to create his own programs. He had been at LeaderTreks for one week. Ever notice how these 20-somethings want to run the world, but have no real experience to do it. Maybe you are a 20 something and you’re thinking “that’s right – we want to run the world.” I love the confidence, but the reality is that you have a lot to learn. So how can you take your confidence and engage people without turning them off.

1. Honor the Past
You must realize the people ahead of you, the 40-somethings, they earned their position through hard work. They just want you to respect that and acknowledge it.

2. Take Advantage of Now
You have responsibilities in your current position; bring creativity and new energy to this position. It won’t take long for people to see your ideas and move you up.

3. Be Humble
Many 20-somethings have a huge advantage in ministry because they understand new technology and because they value leadership. 25 years ago, we understood leadership to be a position or title. Today leadership means making change happen. Empathize with the older crowd and help them understand the new technology. Make yourself into a bridge between the past and the present.

About the Author

Doug Franklin

Doug Franklin is the president of LeaderTreks, an innovative leadership development organization focusing on students and youth workers. Doug and his wife, Angie, live in West Chicago, Illinois. They don’t have any kids, but they have 2 dogs that think they are children. Diesel and Penelope are Weimaraners  who never leave their side. Doug grew up in…  Read More