To the Editor:

Telling young people that leadership should be their goal may not be the best strategy.

I saw a story on the news about a group of young people who were painting a mural on spring break. An educator mentioned that they should strive to be leaders.

Young people are individuals. Giving this group the idea that you can be successful only through leadership sends the wrong message.

Instead, let’s encourage and empower our young people to develop their unique skills and talents. What are they good at? What do they enjoy doing?

If they don’t know, have them try different things through volunteering, a hobby, or a continuing education class. Have them talk to an experienced professional who worked in a job that the young person is interested in. Have them take an assessment to match their personality to a career.

Instead of all being leaders, these young people might be middle-level organizers, construction workers, or marketing assistants who love their jobs and make a decent living.

There are a lot of ways for young people to be successful without being a leader. Let’s be sure to guide them in the correct direction. 

Elaine Doremus

Albany