Commitment to a Cause

A young person is guided in his outlook by those he associates with most. They are usually his circle of friends. Often after leaving school, they go together to classes, vocational training or even for jobs where they like to be with known people.

Similarly whilst in employment, it is good to join a cause one is interested in and take it seriously as it is both good to take one’s mind of work, and also to interact with other people outside of one’s employment.

Youth take up a sport or an activity of personal interest like, singing, dancing travelling photography and the like. A well rounded individual has other interests outside of his main employment. Religion is also one of them, especially if it is followed in a deeper and more committed level to the majority of people who just follow their religion as a matter of reaction.

I put politics into this area too. If one has strong beliefs in how one can change the status quo and is not happy with the state of things, one can pursue a political agenda. Firstly get into a role in your area, where you can show leadership and be recognized in the party as one who shows promise.

In order to do all these activities one has to be committed and be prepared to sacrifice a combination of time, money and determination to succeed. This is rewarding but unlike instant gratification that is usually the order of the day, it takes some time to achieve the reward one expects.

In that role, the word ‘what is in it for me’ must always be at the tip of your tongue as otherwise you will not commit. Much of the above, results in a level of sacrifice, which is not rewarded by a pay check unlike a job. It is important therefore to realize it and allocate time and effort in order to achieve this goal. It is easier if there are more friends or colleagues to work with together which makes it easy to attend the various meetings or sessions or practices. Remember that the reward at the end is based purely on the effort put in. It is important that the leaders give leadership, to encourage the youth to achieve them, knowing full well that there is a responsibility to provide the prizes at the end of the road, if successful. That is why there are financial and other incentives once the goals are attained and the winners are recognized. Remember the greater the effort the greater the potential reward so it is important to keep it all in perspective.