Lillian Lincoln Lambert

The millennial generation is generally referred to as those born from the early 1980s to 1990s. In general these youngsters are considered to be sociable, optimistic, talented, well educated, collaborative, open-minded, influential and achievement oriented. They have high expectations and are well connected. They can put together a group to support a cause with the click of a mouse. Witness the young people, many from this generation, who orchestrated President Obama’s campaign.

They are the first generation to grow up surrounded by digital media. They are sophisticated communicators because technology is second nature. There is, however, one area of concern about technology and that is the digital divide and the gap between the haves and have-nots. There are still some young people living in poor areas who do not have access to computers, much less own computers

These youngsters lead very busy scheduled and structured lives. Matter of fact, they are the busiest generation of children, facing time pressures traditionally reserved for adults. In fact, they may be overbooked between their studies, extracurricular activities, and socializing with friends. Their schedules are micromanaged by parents, teachers, coaches, etc., with parents shuttling them from place to place. Despite all of their activities, they are civic –minded and find time to volunteer. .

On the darker side, they have been exposed to a complex, challenging world at a young age: 9/11, Oklahoma bombings; the Iraq war, world hunger, the economic downturn, the global financial crisis, global warming and Katrina. But the positive outcome from these acts is the emergence of a renewed symbolism for our everyday heroes, policemen, firemen and other public servants who perform unselfish acts to protect or save the lives of others.

The millennial generation is probably the first generation of Americans who are truly accepting of and comfortable with different races and cultures. They have more daily interaction with other ethnicities and cultures than any other generation. Their generation was probably the most comfortable with the theme of president Obama’ campaign of one America. The opportunities for them are many and they can have a major impactt on the future direction of our country.

Breaking the mold is an interesting concept, but what does it mean to you? That could depend on your station in life, your values, your experiences or other developments that shape your world.

Let me pose some questions to you. Are you the first in your family to do something unique or atypical? Are you a student thinking of majoring in a field of study that is nontraditional or considered unorthodox? Are you in a career based on your field of study but now you hate to go to work? Are you an older” more mature” person thinking of doing something considered “improper” or not something someone your age should be doing? A “yes” to any of these questions could make you a candidate for “breaking the mold”.

For some this prospect could be a real challenge while others may be filled with trepidation at the mere thought. Either feeling is ok, but the important thing is what happens next.

Suppose you want to start your own business but are afraid to take that first step. What are some important things to know as an entrepreneur?

• A successful entrepreneur is a self-starter. No one is going to tell you what needs to be done every day,
• You must have resolve, invincible fortitude, and an unwavering commitment to your vision. There are plenty of naysayers who will try to throw you off balance and fill you with doubt.
• A moral compass is essential. Never compromise yourself or your values. Business owners face temptations on a regular basis.
• Run your business everyday as if it’s on the bidding block. If you were to open your books to a seller at any given moment, what would your numbers reveal about how you ran your business?
• Hire well and manage well. A good team is essential to building a strong organization.
• Cultivate good relationships with everyone with whom you do business, not matter what their rank and station in the organization.

This is a very limited list of things that are important to know as an entrepreneur, there are many more.

As stated by John C. Maxwell, an accomplished author and speaker, “Every worthwhile accomplishment has a price tag attached to it. The question is always whether you are willing to pay the price to attain it – in hard work, sacrifice, patience, faith, and endurance”.