“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
The future of our country lies in the hands of the next generation. It is our duty to equip them with the tools they need to succeed. Quality education, mentoring, travel, networking and thoughtful inheritance planning are the cornerstones of building a robust society.
Quality education is the bedrock upon which a child’s future is built. It goes beyond acquiring essential academic skills and knowledge. Parents, teachers and schools are not just educators but also mentors who play an indispensable role in this comprehensive education process. This holistic approach helps children discover their passions, interests and potential, nurturing their innate talents and guiding them toward fulfilling careers. A quality education lays the groundwork for financial security, not just for the children themselves but also for future generations.
However, the role of education extends beyond the formal classroom setting. Travel significantly contributed to my development, which I achieved through the Boy Scout movement, local and regional camps, and international jamborees. Traveling with sporting teams, for higher education, and on family vacation to gain lasting real-world experiences is equally crucial. Selecting jobs with travel components became essential. Our children then caught the travel bug and selected professions that kept them in the air, capturing global experiences.
Practical education can be even more impactful in many cases, depending on the individual’s receptivity. Skills learned through internships, apprenticeships, and hands-on projects often provide invaluable insights and practical knowledge that formal education may not cover. These experiences prepare children for the complexities of the real world, equipping them with problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, adaptability and relationship development.
Parental mentoring is another vital aspect of building a strong society. Parents are the first and most influential mentors a child will ever have. The values and principles instilled by parents form the foundation of a child’s character. Spiritual guidance from parents helps children develop a strong sense of right and wrong, fostering integrity and moral fortitude. Mentoring goes beyond just imparting knowledge; it involves actively participating in a child’s life, understanding their struggles, and guiding them through challenges. By providing emotional support and encouragement, parents help their children build confidence and resilience.
As parents, we must also consider the legacy we leave behind for our children. Inheritance is not just about passing down financial assets; it encompasses the transfer of values, wisdom, and life lessons. While financial inheritance can provide a safety net, the most significant inheritance we can leave our children is the knowledge and skills to navigate life’s challenges. It is important to strike a balance between enjoying our lives and ensuring that we have enough to pass on to the next generation. Thoughtful inheritance planning involves accumulating wealth and teaching children how to manage and grow it responsibly.
Networking and relationship-building are also critical components of a successful and fulfilling life. Our destiny is often tied to the relationships we build and the networks we cultivate. Encouraging children to develop strong interpersonal skills and meaningful connections can open doors to opportunities that would otherwise remain closed. A robust network provides support, guidance, and invaluable resources in both personal and professional spheres.
By focusing on these core areas – quality education, travel, mentoring, networking, and thoughtful inheritance planning – we can build a stronger, more prosperous future for our children and society.
I end by extending condolences to the family of Sir Neville Nicholls, a visionary leader and dedicated regionalist who served as the third President of the Caribbean Development Bank.
To me, he was a caring, gracious and engaging mentor on enterprise development projects from 1998 to 2012, which I had the honor to execute. His legacy will last forever. May he rest in peace.
(Dr. Basil Springer GCM is a corporate governance adviser. His email address is basilgf@marketplaceexcellence.com. His columns may be found at https://www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com).