15-17 years ago I was so jacked up for anything and everything to do with leading youth. Usually it's your first negative situation with a church leader, parent, or co-leader that knocks the energy down. Then you get back in the mix and see a small window of why it matters. Over the years I have learned to compartmentalize the issues from the people and events so that I don't feel the roller coaster ride. Focus your energy on the high percentage shots or constants... students need Christ, they need to be heard, loved, and connected with you, leaders, and each other. In other words, learn to see ministry best in the relationships. Reserve your energy for the things that make this happen the most. Try not to put so much stock in the low percentage shots such as events, programming, and day to day internal church operations. Stay connected with Christ as well and trust him with your reality. Your issues, pain, or struggles do not take him by surprise. Try to find out what he's teaching you or leading toward in the midst of the lows.