This topic reminds me of the story of the Queen of Katwe; Phiona was a young teenager who couldn’t
afford a proper education as she was from a humble background.
She took up hawking on behalf of her mum in order to support the family.
While hawking she came across chess club, became inquisitive about chess and joined the chess group.
She started to learn how to play chess and her first teacher was a much younger girl. Against all odds, she was learning, asking questions and following through with the lessons from her coach.
Phiona became a world-class chess player at Age 16, furthered her education and became a legend in the history of her country.
One of the greatest skill a leader can have is the skill of being keen. To be keen means to have the desire to want to know things, to want to be informed and to want to be abreast of what is happening around you. You could either make use of this skill as a professional or as an individual in your relationships.
Great Leaders and professionals in the corporate world are always inquisitive. Have you wondered why Bill Gates, Aliko Dangote and other great entrepreneurs keep conducting research? A wise man once said, “the day you stop learning you stop growing”.
As a Youth, it is paramount for you to be keen, if you are going to maximise your potential and lead. Knowledge gives you confidence and guidance to perform better in a work environment or in any area of interest.
You might ask, how can I be knowledgeable as a youth? How can I have a Keen Mind? Here are FOUR TIPS on How you can have a Keen Mind:
First, believe in yourself. Know that you are clever, knowledgeable and brilliant.
Second, be curious and passionate in finding out answers. Ask the questions in respect of the What, Why, When, How, Who and Where in your area of interest.
Third, be willing to learn from anyone. Using the story of Phiona, You have to be humble to learn and practise active listening. Listen to learn.
Fourth, share your knowledge. Even when you are wrong you will be corrected and through that process, you will keep learning.
Why is it important that I have a Keen Mind as a Youth?
- Having a Keen Mind gives you confidence.
- You will notice things other people miss.
- You will be a step ahead.
- You will be able to take advantage of opportunities.
- You will be positioning yourself for Leadership.
I remember being part of an interview panel and a well dressed young man walked in. During the discussion we realised that he wasn’t well equipped to function in the job role…we ended the conversation with him but advised that he possibly take an internship in that position to learn. He wasn’t pleased.
I have highlighted below a few obstacles preventing youths from having a keen mind:
- Being unable to figure out our Passion, Purpose and Focus in life.
- Distraction from life goals and things that really matter to you.
- Discouragement.
- Looking for Quick Turnarounds or Quick Fixes.
- Short Sightedness.
I understand all of these because I have been there and trust me if you are in any of these positions it doesn’t mean that there is something wrong with you. It is okay.
How do you overcome these challenges?
- Find out your passion and purpose by asking and answering the questions: What makes me happy? What are my
Strengths? What can I do easily as a person? What do I enjoy doing? Who is my creator? Etc. - Then form a vision for yourself; this is basically you being futuristic…what do you want for yourself in the next one year, two years and possibly 3 years. See the future you want for yourself and take a firm grip of it.
- Be disciplined to remain focused on only things that relate to your vision and future goals. Do not hate yourself when you miss out. Rather quickly reposition yourself on track again.
- Constantly review yourself and encourage yourself. You have got to be self-motivated.
- You may need to talk to someone and share your wins. You can get a free session with us. Let’s
get your progress report, share your wins and help you achieve a greater result. - And most importantly, ask the Lord to help you and I am sure He will.