How do we ignite the FLAME?
Focus
Through meeting up with the person we are mutually interested in, we share life experiences and knowledge. We "focus" on character development and values formation. "Focusing" on the social-emotional, communication, and stress management skills are all important. Social-emotional skills help our next generation learn about their inner world and the workings of the emotional experiences that impact their decision making and behaviors. As they venture out to build relationships, communication skills will help them thrive and navigate complex social settings. When they face daily relational and emotional stresses, they may benefit from stress management skills.
We focus on these skills that foster the development of characters and values-
1. Social-emotional skills: self-awareness, self-management, motivation, empathy, social skills
2. Communication: active listening and assertive expression of needs
3. Stress management: deep breathing, visualization, meditation, prayers, etc.
Listening
Through active listening, we may find out what is troubling our young friends and guide them in a direction worth pursuing. Listening is both art and skills to be learned. Each listening act helps our children/mentees to know their deeper thoughts and build their resilient Self.
Active listening is to listen beyond the content. We listen empathically and respond to the emotions behind us. Furthermore, we may appreciate the effort given and the needs behind that drive the intensity of the conversation or the cold front encountered that serves as a defense against further disappointment. As we listen further, we may hear the aspirations or potentials of a passionate soul beaming with dreams without bounds. We may then constructively build reachable goals and steps to help to accomplish these dreams.
Affirming
People respond to encouraging words. We all relate well to people who are positive towards us. In a culture full of criticism and competition, we need to practice reframing negativity to a more positive twist in outlook. Affirming words, behaviors, and relationships build a confident Self.
Mutuality
Mentoring is a two-way relationship. It benefits both parties. We blessed each other by sharing stories of life. The time spent together is also a time to learn from each other. Together we eat, shop, talk, and experience something special between us. The times invested build strong memories that weather tough times.
Exploration
Mentoring is not teaching. It's more like an adventure taken together. There are joy, surprises, and excitement in exploration together. We can spend time and be curious about their cutting-edge STEAM Education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics). More importantly, we are actively involved in learning about their Friends, Family, and Faith that occupy a deeper place in their hearts.
Comments
Post a Comment