As a classroom mentor for junior high students with Valley of the Sun United Way’s Destination Graduation program, I learned as much as I taught.

One common theme among the students is they all want to be taken more seriously by adults. From experience, here are my favorite tips for succeeding in life.

Share these helpful hints for getting ahead with teens and young adults:

• Behavior. Your actions speak louder than words. If you fool around at school or work, people may think you can't be trusted or that you’re always looking for attention; even at the expense of your dignity. Act responsibly, to be taken seriously.
• Words. What you say is important. If you make up stories all of the time, no one will believe what you say and eventually people will see through you. Be truthful to improve your credibility.
• Attitude. Your attitude (how you see things) can determine your altitude (how far you go) in life. Hanging around people who never have anything positive to say can bring you down as birds of a feather really do flock together. Surround yourself with positive people. Be optimistic to see and take advantage of opportunities.
• Confidence. People like and follow capable people who are confident. Being accountable for your words and actions helps you achieve your goals and become more confident. Follow through on what you say you will do to gain the trust of others.
• Humility. No one likes a show off. Modesty and confidence work exceptionally well together in the battle against arrogance. Share the spotlight by recognizing others who have helped you. Limit blame but be generous with praise to help build relationships.

Remember what it was like being “brushed off” by adults when you were young? You can help our youth to find their voice. Become a Destination Graduation mentor and transform serious dreams into reality.

Travis Hardin is a classroom mentor in Destination Graduation, a program combining early intervention and mentoring to ensure students in grades 6-9 are on the path to high school graduation, college and career. A native of Columbia, Tennessee, Travis is a Communications Consultant for Wells Fargo. Rather than sitting back and counting his blessings, he shares them.