This Mistake Keeps Teens from Becoming Leaders
- Kirk Carlson
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
In today’s fast-paced world, we celebrate talent, confidence, and ambition. Yet too often, we overlook one critical flaw that holds many teenagers back from becoming the leaders they’re capable of becoming.
That flaw? Waiting for permission.
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The Permission Trap
Many teens grow up believing they need someone else’s approval to take initiative — a coach to tell them they’re ready, a teacher to assign the role, or an adult to notice their potential. But leadership doesn’t start with a title. It starts with action.
Waiting for permission teaches passivity. It sends the message:
👉 “Don’t speak unless spoken to.”
👉 “Follow, don’t lead.”
👉 “Play it safe — don’t mess up.”
And that mindset robs young people of their voice, their courage, and their ability to lead when it counts.
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The Truth About Leadership
Leadership doesn’t require perfection. It requires ownership.
Whether it’s helping a teammate, solving a problem, or speaking up when something’s wrong — leaders act when others hesitate. They take responsibility, not because they’re told to… but because they know it’s right.
And the truth is: Teenagers are capable of more than they’re told.
They just need the space — and the courage — to step up.
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How to Break Free from the Trap
1. Stop waiting. Start doing.
Don’t wait for someone to tap you on the shoulder. Raise your hand. Take initiative. Organize. Speak up.
2. Own your influence.
You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to lead. Show up with integrity and lead by example.
3. Learn from failure.
Every great leader has stumbled. What matters is how you bounce back, reflect, and grow.
4. Support others.
Leadership isn’t just about you. It’s about lifting others. Help your peers succeed — that’s real strength.
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The Next Generation Needs Leaders Now
Whether in schools, sports, or communities — we need young leaders who aren’t afraid to act. Leaders who don’t need permission to make a difference. Leaders who understand that courage doesn’t mean being fearless — it means stepping up anyway.
If you’re a teen reading this, the time to lead is now.
If you’re an adult, coach, or mentor — empower the young people around you to stop waiting and start leading.
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🖊 Sign the petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR
🌐 Learn more: www.covenantofcourage.com
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