The Best of Us: Life Lessons from Youth Work

What society sees as success and what makes your life meaningful may be two different things.

The future of the human race feels increasingly uncertain. Despite our many advances, life has not become universally easier. The world has become a more complicated place. This new reality presents new challenges to us both personally and professionally.

Feeling anxious? Don’t worry. This book has what you need. It takes the reader on a development journey, drawing on a secret weapon: youth work skills. For many years, the two authors have worked with youth workers and marvelled at their incredible talents. Youth workers have always been brilliant at making the most out of difficult situations. This book demonstrates that if we all had excellent youth work skills, we’d be more successful in life and never was this more needed than now.

In writing this book, the authors have reached out to some of the best youth workers the know to really help distil down the 10 key attributes that great youth workers have that the rest of us need to develop to face the modern world successfully. Over the chapters of this book, readers will work though advice, stories and practical exercises, to help them develop and use youth work skills in day-to-day life.

This book presents a unique and practical framework tailored to the demands of our ever-changing world. Everyone - from teachers to supermarket managers, civil servants to city slickers - can benefit from this book. By the time they get to the final page, the reader (whoever they are) will be better equipped to face the future and not just survive, but thrive, in the face of tomorrow’s challenges.

Support for the book

“Youth workers are masters of personal and social development. The world is rapidly changing, and their refreshing approach can help everyone achieve and find their ‘A’ game. This book is much needed and most welcome.”
Dame Kelly Holmes DBE OLY, President of the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust

“Youth workers transform lives. Whoever you are, the insights here will help you transform yours.”
Simon Weston CBE, Falklands Veteran and Weston Spirit

“Life doesn’t come with an instruction manual, but if it did, it would look a lot like this book. It’s packed with practical wisdom, powerful insights, and step-by-step guidance to help you reach new heights. A true roadmap for success and fulfilment!”
Robin Sieger, Author of the Best-Selling Book Natural Born Winners and International Keynote Business Speaker