Lessons from a Impromptu Youth Mentorship Event

This past week, I had the privilege of volunteering at a youth mentorship event — an opportunity that came together within just two days’ notice. I had been telling a friend how I wanted to get more involved in mentorship and coaching. Crazy enough, In his line of work he was helping restore an old church into a youth empowerment center and put in a word for me to connect with some people involved with the organization that will be operating out of that youth empowerment center. He called me and said I just got you your first speaking engagement and I have some people I want you to reach out to. Thats when I followed up and little did I know an invitation came out of that. I didn’t hesitate — even with little information, I recognized it as a door I needed to walk through.

Sometimes, the best way to grow is to immerse yourself — even before you feel fully ready. Shadow someone, show up, experiment, and you'll gain feedback far more valuable than theory.

This event was exactly what I’d been looking for — real-world experience and new relationships. My friend even told the organizer to “throw me in the deep end,” which I appreciated. Getting out of your comfort zone is the fastest way to grow.

I assumed I would be speaking to a group of around fifty, so I prepared accordingly — only to find out a few hours before that I would be speaking to a small breakout group of three. I didn’t mind either way, because my mission is the same, regardless of the size or occasion. The event kicked off with an intro, then split students into smaller interest-based groups. I was paired with three young men who were curious about contracting and entrepreneurship.

That moment hit me — listening to these students looking for direction reminded me of the power of mentorship. I thought, “Man, I wish something like this existed when I was their age.” But I trust everything happens for a reason.

In my group were three young men: a rising high school freshman, a recent senior, and a college student. All greeted me confidently — curious, articulate, determined. Another mentor was also in the group and began the session by sharing his story, and I took that time to observe, listen, and ask questions myself.

My wife joined me at the event too, which made the moment even more meaningful.

When it was my turn to speak, I chose to focus on the areas I felt hadn’t been covered deeply enough:

• Perseverance

• Accountability

• Finding positive role models

• Marriage and manhood

• Patience with the process

• Character development
  

I emphasized character above all else. I believe everything flows from it — faith, decisions, business, and relationships.

I shared how our culture over glamorizes fame, materialism, money, womanizing, and superficial validation, but character is what sustains a life well-lived.

One young man asked me, “How do you build your character?”
I told him:
You live by a set of life principles. Then life will test those principles. And through that testing, you'll discover who you truly want to become.

Many people have never taken the time to define their own guiding principles. I encouraged them to start now.

Here are 10 Questions to Clarify Your Life Principles:

1. Does this align with my values and beliefs?
   (If it goes against your character, convictions, or core beliefs — it’s probably not the right path.)
   

2. Is this consistent with who I want to become?
   (Think long-term. Will this decision grow the person I’m becoming, or take me off track?)
   

3. Does this bring peace, not just pressure?
   (God often confirms with peace. Pressure can be from people, ego, or fear.)
   

4. Am I acting from faith or fear?
   (Don’t move just because you’re scared. Move because you’re sure, even if it’s uncomfortable.)
   

5. Have I prayed, paused, and sought wise counsel?
   (Slow down. Talk to God. Talk to trusted people. Don’t rush big decisions.)
   

6. Does this honor my purpose and priorities?
   Does it line up with your calling, goals, and season of life — or distract from them?
   

7. What fruit will this produce?
   (Look beyond the moment. Will this bring growth, impact, peace, or regret?)
   

8. Am I trying to please people or obey God?
   (Don’t let people’s opinions be louder than God’s direction.)
   

9. Can I steward this well right now?
   (Do you have the time, energy, capacity, and maturity to handle this responsibly?)
   

10. Would I be proud to share this decision openly?
    (If it has to be hidden or explained away — it’s probably not wise.)
    

Character is a journey — not a destination. You won’t always respond the right way, and that’s okay. What matters is how you reflect, learn, and grow from it along with building a routine of discipline.

That day, those young men asked more powerful questions, and I was grateful not only to teach but also to learn from them. It reminded me why I feel called to serve the current and future generations.

I want to encourage anyone on their personal journey to continue pursuing a life of meaning and impact, no matter where they are. It’s never too late to start, and by clearly defining your life principles, you create a solid foundation that guides your decisions and actions. This alignment with your core values empowers you to live intentionally, overcome challenges, and fulfill your divine purpose with confidence and clarity. Keep pressing forward, knowing that each step brings you closer to a life rich in significance and purpose.