By Leslie Sturgeon
Following the path of others can lead you to success! A mentor can give you the guidance and support you need to live a more prosperous life.
What is a mentor?
Simply put . . . a trusted counselor or guide. It is anyone who possesses the qualities you wish to emulate and who has something to teach you! This person can be a stranger or close friend, younger or older, living or deceased, a celebrity, the author of your favorite book, a political figure, a business associate or co-worker. You can have mentors for different reasons . . . one who guides you in business, your career, motherhood or relationships. A mentor should have strengths that you lack, embody the qualities you want in your future and challenge you to acquire new strengths.
How do I find a mentor?
Think about your current life and the areas you want to enhance. Is there someone or multiple people you admire? Is there someone who is an expert in the field you are in or wish to be in? Is there someone living a life you want or achieving the level of success you have dreamed about? Mentors are everywhere!
How do I approach a mentor?
Many people believe others are out of their league or unapproachable. Aim high. Approach her to tell her how much you admire her – the worst that can happen is she could say no. Even if you cannot have one-on-one meetings with your mentor, you can follow her lead and learn from her.
How do I get the most out of my mentor?
If your mentor is someone you communicate with on a regular basis, be brave and ask her whatever is on your mind. Be inquisitive. Don’t hold back thinking your question is stupid or will make you look inferior. As mom always said, “No question is stupid if you don’t know the answer.” If your mentor is an author, read as much of their material as you can. Research what makes your mentor successful if he or she is a political or business figure. Follow their lead. Your mentor most likely will challenge you to get out of your comfort zone – you absolutely must do this or you will not succeed. Remaining stagnant is not an option and you are wasting your time and that of the mentor if you don’t take action.
Just as a mentor is a positive force in your life, you may find someone is having the opposite effect. You could learn some valuable information from her, as in what not to do in some situations. But you may want to ask yourself some tough questions:
- Who in my life is detrimental to my success? Who is a dream stealer? Who is bringing me down? Be honest with yourself. Your answers could give you a new direction in life.
- Just because certain people have been in your life does not mean they need to stay there. You become like the people you associate with whether you realize it or not. You are profoundly affected by their actions, ethics, values and attitudes. Dig deep and find out if there is a place for these people in your life.
Make this the year you look to those around you to help you reach your goals and achieve the success you’ve been working toward.
Speak Your Mind