I worked my first job when I was 10 years old, babysitting for an adorable 18-month-old boy named Eddie. By the time I was 17, I was employed as a babysitter, an insurance office assistant, a waitress, a telephone survey operator, and a dental assistant. All provided skills that I utilize today.
Work continues to give me purpose, energy, and new experiences for learning and growth. Studies show that those who work longer tend to live longer.
If you have passion for your work, the money will follow.
It’s important to foster work in our youth. Today’s teens are not working as they did decades ago. They’re over enrolled in activities and focusing on rigorous high school classes.
Starting young sets a standard. Our sons did not want to work as teens. I insisted they did. Looking back, they gained irreplaceable skills, confidence learning from mistakes, and a strong work ethic.
We employ kids in our neighborhood to mow our lawn, trim, and blow leaves. We feel strongly about providing opportunities, and pay quite well! A few winters ago, an 8-year-old boy showed up at our door asking to shovel snow. Although we had a blower, we hired him because we loved his entrepreneurial spirit. He’s a hard worker!
When he was 12, it was time for us to hire someone new to mow our lawn. We approached him and gave him a chance. Although he was small, within three sessions of training, his skills were perfect! On his first day of sixth grade, his teacher asked the class to write about the most meaningful experience of their summer. He wrote about his new opportunity to mow our lawn, make money, and save.
Look for opportunities to hire young people, whether it’s helping around your home, in your business, or a college internship. This mentoring is priceless as we are developing our future leaders. The skills they learn are invaluable and will serve them for years to come.
