As mentors, we can’t underestimate the power of presence. Every week, we have the power to bring a little hope and encouragement to our students. For some of them, we may be the only adult that they can sit and talk with for an hour. And, that means that our time with them truly has the power to shape their lives both now and into the future. Here are a few ways you can be an empowering presence this month:
- Be contagious. Think of ways that you can make a difference in your student’s life simply by sharing some of your positive attributes/qualities. As people, we all tend to “rub off” on each other. So, think about how your body language and words and perspective are all impacting your student when you meet with them.
- Laugh together. Laughter is so powerful. Shared laughter can break down walls and even build trust with your student. One way you can easily share a laugh is to ask them to show you some of their favorite funny memes on Instagram. Just be ready to share some of your own!
- Care unconditionally. Chances are good that your student will frustrate you at times and even let you down (remember, they are teenagers!). But, when you show them that you care about them through the highs AND the lows, you are not just empowering them. You are giving them hope.
Written by Jason, BTO Mentor
