WARNING -----THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF THE DISCUSSION -----WARNING
I've done a lot of writing about my thoughts on men, fatherhood, and the trends I see. Thanks for the comments, I like them and they start a discussion that should continue. I hope that for all of you reading, you will post comments, continue the discussion, and more importantly, move from discussion to action in your own lives and communities.
Below is a list of things to start a list of what young men need to know. A few of those things focus on race, but apply as well to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, origin, etc.
This isn't meant to be an all-encompassing, last word on the subject list. THIS is the beginning of the discussion. Please add to the list in your comments, and I'll compile all of them into a not-too-far in the future follow up post.
Here we go:
• Once you get a job, acquire as much training as they will give you
• Before you assume it’s about race, make sure you are 100% compliant in all other areas.
• It’s always about race. Even if it’s not.
• Never threaten EEO or other legal action on the job. If you’re going to do it, then just do it.
• Before asking what you should get from a situation (job, relationship, etc.,) ask what you bring to that situation.
• When speaking to a woman, ask yourself, “Would I speak this way to my mother, sister, wife?”
• Focus on the long term. Instant gratification, especially when it takes away from long term focus, has lasting consequences.
• Watch and learn.
• The number one person who has to believe in you is you.
• While imitation can be a source of inspiration and foundation, the bottom line is the world doesn’t need another ________________, it needs you to develop your own voice.
• Maturity is the transition from the job defining you to you defining the job.
• If you’re doing something “just for the money,” find something else to do.
• While “paying dues” is part of life, there is no benefit to overpaying them.
• With “mentors,” you have a vote. Choose wisely and challenge them.
• Does the company you keep challenge you to be the best? If not, find some new company.
• The moment you give someone else the power to determine your worth, you become a slave. (no exceptions, sorry)
