What I’m calling for is an intervention, one that all of us must commit to. We must all work to reinforce awareness, among our young people and among one another, that no matter the problem, the only way to a better situation is to have a plan and to do something tangible each and every day toward bringing it to fruition. The plan need not be perfect; in fact, it will not be. It will change and evolve even as it is being executed, as new circumstances are encountered, short-term goals are achieved, and new knowledge and experiences are gained. Any plan backed by commitment and follow-through, even an imperfect or “unrealistic†one, is better than none at all.
It starts with our own households, especially with our children. We must make setting goals and planning part of our daily discourse in our families, communities, and among our friends and associates, and set the example for others. Share the plans that brought you to where you are today and the steps you are taking today to achieve future goals. Everyone in your personal support network should ask and be asked: What are your goals? What’s your plan to achieve them? What’s your timetable and how are you measuring your progress? What will you do today to bring your plan to fruition? How can I help? We must make planning and goal-setting a priority in our day-to-day lives, and standard operating procedure in our community while constantly reminding one another and our young people that the world owes us nothing that we are not willing to pursue for ourselves with diligence, resilience, determination, and gratitude.