Reverse Mentorship; Learning from the Young

RANDom thought: I find that as I get older, I learn more from the younger generation

I recently attended a family wedding where the groom and bride were both teachers. 

They had framed writings from elementary school students for decorations at the reception, answering this question; “How do you know you are in love?”. The responses were fascinating and very eye-opening. I do not think one adult I know could have done better. 

On the drive home the next day, I thought about how much we can learn from younger people, and I am not only talking about school-aged children. As a 60-year-old, I am talking about anyone under 50! As I thought about the people outside of my family I spend my time with and go to for advice, I realized that at least several of them are significantly younger than me. Darlynn, Jennifer, Bobby, and Katy are all more than a dozen years younger than me. Yet I value their advice and wisdom as much or sometimes more than those my own age or older. Why is this? Maybe because they are less jaded, worry less, or have more hope than us old folks? I don’t know why it is; I only know that I am glad they all take my calls and share their wisdom on everything from technology, to work to family and how to have more fun!

So, if you are tired of talking with old folks about retirement, hurting joints, and menopause, may I suggest you find a young person to visit with and be open to listening and learning!?

I will discuss this topic more on FB live at my Career Cultivators site on Wednesday at 11:30. Join me there!

Katy Steinberg and her two children will also be featured on my podcast, launching on Thursday and covering this exact topic. You may find the podcast by  clicking here.

Be sure to follow me on the Facebook Career Cultivators page and Twitter.

 Remember, as my Grandfather always said, “Take time to stop and smell the roses”!

Until we meet again, take care. 

A few of the wedding responses exactly as written:

“Love means when you are comfortable and trust and care about someone enough to be your self”

 “You know you are in love when you are attached and its hard to let go. Love is when you actually and truly trust a person with your head and everything in you. And when you feel they care not just about you but the way they are treating you. When you love them you are down to be with them no matter what. If its and arguments ya'll will talk it about and make sure nothing small can break ya'll up”.