A Personal Journey with Mentorship

Throughout my career, I have been privileged to have multiple mentors. In my early thirties, I came across the idea that everyone could benefit from mentorship, a concept I had not seriously considered before. Since then, the experience of being mentored has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life.

One of the standout figures in my mentoring journey was a former boss who exemplified the role of an excellent mentor. For two years, we met regularly before he invited me to join his team. As the president of the U.S. division of a significant multinational corporation, he oversaw numerous subsidiaries, each led by its own president.

What made this individual truly remarkable was his ability to provide honest feedback. He had a unique talent for critiquing without making anyone feel belittled, inspiring those around him in a way that few could manage. I am forever grateful that he entered my life.

“A mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you than you see in yourself and helps bring it out of you.” — Bob Proctor

The Essence of Mentorship

My mentor was not just a boss; he was an exceptional guide. He took the time to evaluate my fit within his team carefully. During our years together, I learned invaluable lessons that shaped my career. His storytelling ability and insightful questions often led to profound realizations, helping others see the obvious truths they had overlooked.

Interestingly, while he garnered immense respect from many, some did not appreciate him. Their negative views reflected more about them than about his character. His straightforward questions often caught people off guard, revealing their blind spots, which could lead to defensiveness or, alternatively, to valuable learning opportunities.

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend who corrects out of love and concern.” — Proverbs 27:6 AMP

Finding Your Own Mentor

Do you have an "Alan" in your life? This mentor may not necessarily be a friend or colleague, but someone whose words and actions you respect and learn from. If you haven't found such a person, I encourage you to seek one out. The right mentor can change your life dramatically.

Often, when you actively search for a mentor, they appear in unexpected ways. The key is to stay vigilant and open to these opportunities. Whether it’s a coach, boss, friend, or spouse, the right person can propel you toward achieving your dreams.

Some characteristics to look for in a mentor include:

• They provide constructive critiques rather than mere criticism.
• Their intentions are genuinely good, with no ulterior motives.
• They possess relevant life experience.
• They are confident yet humble, direct yet compassionate.
• They treat you with respect, fostering mutual dignity.
• They are trustworthy, motivating you to perform at your best.

Recognizing the need for a mentor increases your chances of finding one. If you have a sincere desire, you'll likely encounter someone who fits the role.

Don’t hesitate to approach someone you admire and ask them to be your informal mentor. Often, people are honored by such requests, and persistence is key if the first person isn't available.

“Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.” — John Crosby