As business leaders, one of the most common lies we hear on a consistent basis is the statement, “I want a mentor”. It sounds well enough, but there aren’t that many people that follow through on the assertion. Most people like the idea of mentorship, but that’s where it ends. Why do most people say they want to be mentored, but in fact, never take the additional steps to make that statement a reality?
The fact of the matter is that very few of us like admitting we need help. It’s against our wiring. Who wants to admit that they are weak, wrong, ignorant, or in need of assistance? Not too many hands raised, huh? Well, the truth is our strength. It’s from a posture of weakness that one is able to humble themselves to a place of admitting their “gaps” and then listen to someone who has walked down the road before them. That confession is the one that we all need to make, but few of us have the courage to do so.
So how does someone go from meager lip service to acting on their desire to be mentored? It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:
Step 1: While taking time to reflect, write down the areas of your greatest need, doubt, fear, and failure in your life. These are the significant areas in your life where you seem to fall short often. It’s crucial that you are incredibly honest and transparent here. So much so, it may benefit you to take a couple passes at it so you ensure your list is accurate. You can’t heal what you won’t reveal. Besides, take heart, because you do not have to share that list with anyone (....yet)!
Step 2: Write down what you want to be true about yourself in 90 days, 200 days, 2 years and 10 years from now. Envision the type of individual you want to be and put language to it. What do you want people to say about you? Maybe you want to be reliable or someone that’s easy to work with on a project? Perhaps you want to be more caring and considerate in your work? It could be that you want to save more money or increase your technical expertise in an area. Regardless of what you decide, write down the kind of individual that you would like to be in your personal and professional life so that it’s stated plainly.
Step 3: Finally, find someone who has achieved those goals and then share your list with them. Be transparent and in return ask them to help you get from where you are today to where you want to be. These people may be at your company or in your industry. They might serve in a civic organization or in your local church. Take the courageous step and introduce yourself in-person or online. Send an email and let them know what you’re looking for and explain what you find admirable in them and how you think they might be able to help. One of the advantages of our current circumstances is that people are more receptive than ever to scheduling videoconferencing time. Most times, people are flattered to be identified and acknowledged and are often looking for people to share their wisdom. Also, know the MNTRs areherefor you and are ready to see that list. We want to help get you from point A to point B with tools and resources to help propel your idea, product, or career forward!