Are you a mentor? Do you have a mentor? What does it mean to be a mentor?
By definition, a mentor is a trusted and experienced individual who provides guidance, support, and advice to a less experienced person, often referred to as a mentee or protégé. The relationship focuses on the mentee’s personal or professional development, helping them navigate challenges, set goals, and acquire new knowledge or skills.
But mentorship is more than a definition—it’s a transformational experience.
We all need to be both mentors and mentees. One statement from a mentor can change everything. One thought or insight can alter the trajectory of your life. For me, John Maxwell was that mentor. Without him, I would not have launched our Corporate Training program or Build IT U. He didn’t just motivate me; he inspired me to make a difference in people’s lives every single day.
You see, your legacy isn’t about what you leave for people—it’s about what you leave in people.
Great mentors have a spirit and attitude that make you feel bigger, bolder, and capable of more than you imagined. Once they’re gone, they are irreplaceable—not because of what they taught, but because of what they instilled in you. Their influence is contagious; it’s not just their lessons but their passion and belief in you that leave a lasting impact.
Your intentional desire to add value to people’s lives is a gift. It’s wonderful to have great talents, but it’s even more extraordinary to have a great heart. Talents may earn admiration, but a great heart earns irreplaceable respect and love.
Mentorship can occur in various contexts, such as education, career, or personal growth. It is often characterized by the following:
- Guidance and Support: A mentor provides insights, expertise, and advice to help the mentee make informed decisions.
- Knowledge Sharing: Mentors impart valuable knowledge and experiences relevant to the mentee’s goals.
- Encouragement and Motivation: They inspire mentees to reach their potential and overcome obstacles.
- Role Modeling: Mentors lead by example, demonstrating behaviors and attitudes worth emulating.
- Personalized Interaction: The relationship is tailored to the mentee’s specific needs and aspirations.
- Sponsorship: Great mentors go beyond advice—they create opportunities, make connections, and facilitate the mentee’s success.
Mentorship can be formal, with structured programs and timelines, or informal, developing organically between individuals.
Most mentors give far more than they ever receive. However, to be a good mentor, you must first be a leader on the inside before you can lead others on the outside. Don’t worry if you’re not perfect from the start—no one is. Mentorship is a skill you develop with practice, much like writing a book. Your first effort might not be great, but with persistence and a commitment to learning, you’ll improve over time.
Similarly, as a mentor, you’ll learn how to build meaningful relationships, maximize your impact, and make a difference in someone’s life. Remember, one statement from a mentor can change everything.
Paying It Forward: Maximize your mentoring relationships by choosing the right people to learn from and grow with. And don’t forget to pay it forward—be the mentor who inspires, uplifts, and instills greatness in others.
Mentorship is a two-way street. It’s not just about giving or receiving; it’s about creating a legacy of growth, learning, and empowerment. So, make it count—because one thoughtful statement, one intentional moment, can change someone’s life forever.
