The definition of a mentor, according to Webster's dictionary is a 'wise and trusted adviser'. He is more than just a person we occasionally discuss our problems with. He is a person who has a vested interest in our success and will do whatever he can to ensure that we reach our goals.
For the most part a mentor is usually someone older than us, but this does not have to always be the case. Naturally, we assume that someone older than us is also more knowledgeable that us. However, if we are starting something new and know absolutely nothing about it, then it is quite possible that someone younger would be the most helpful.
For example, let's say you are middle aged and you have just decided to start a home-based internet marketing business. You are not internet savvy at all and none of your friends are either. So what do you do? The answer is to search for a person who can show you the ropes and in this case it would most likely be a younger person who is having success in this market.
The decision has been made - you need a mentor. Now you have to find that person. The first thing you need to do is ask your friends and family. In this scenario you are going to be looking for a person to help you with doing business over the internet. So be specific. You don't need referrals for people good at public speaking for instance. At least, not yet!
Take the time to think back on the people you have met in the past. Perhaps they might not be able to help you personally but what about their grown or teenage children. It's a sure bet that most teenagers know more about the internet than us older folks. Don't be afraid to ask - the worst thing that can happen is that they say no. If they don't agree to mentor you, don't take this personally. It needs to be mutually agreed upon for it to work.
Success comes to those who don't ever give up!
Whatever you do, please do not think that there is something negative about wanting or needing a mentor. The most brilliant people of the past have nearly always had mentors. The great thing about a mentoring program, is that when you become proficient at what you need to learn, you then become knowledgeable and are in turn able to mentor others.
There is great satisfaction in not only being mentored but in turn mentoring others. Being mentored means that you can achieve your goals more effectively and speedily and mentoring others can be extremely rewarding as you see them grow and achieve their dreams.
I have had a number of mentors over the years. I know that I would not have achieved the level of success that I now have without their knowledge and guidance. I cannot thank them enough for all they have done for me.
Jan Shimano - 15478
For the most part a mentor is usually someone older than us, but this does not have to always be the case. Naturally, we assume that someone older than us is also more knowledgeable that us. However, if we are starting something new and know absolutely nothing about it, then it is quite possible that someone younger would be the most helpful.
For example, let's say you are middle aged and you have just decided to start a home-based internet marketing business. You are not internet savvy at all and none of your friends are either. So what do you do? The answer is to search for a person who can show you the ropes and in this case it would most likely be a younger person who is having success in this market.
The decision has been made - you need a mentor. Now you have to find that person. The first thing you need to do is ask your friends and family. In this scenario you are going to be looking for a person to help you with doing business over the internet. So be specific. You don't need referrals for people good at public speaking for instance. At least, not yet!
Take the time to think back on the people you have met in the past. Perhaps they might not be able to help you personally but what about their grown or teenage children. It's a sure bet that most teenagers know more about the internet than us older folks. Don't be afraid to ask - the worst thing that can happen is that they say no. If they don't agree to mentor you, don't take this personally. It needs to be mutually agreed upon for it to work.
Success comes to those who don't ever give up!
Whatever you do, please do not think that there is something negative about wanting or needing a mentor. The most brilliant people of the past have nearly always had mentors. The great thing about a mentoring program, is that when you become proficient at what you need to learn, you then become knowledgeable and are in turn able to mentor others.
There is great satisfaction in not only being mentored but in turn mentoring others. Being mentored means that you can achieve your goals more effectively and speedily and mentoring others can be extremely rewarding as you see them grow and achieve their dreams.
I have had a number of mentors over the years. I know that I would not have achieved the level of success that I now have without their knowledge and guidance. I cannot thank them enough for all they have done for me.
Jan Shimano - 15478
About the Author:
Jan Shimano was District Manager for Health & Welfare Canada for many years. She has also successfully represented clients at their Tribunal Hearings with the WSIB. She has had many years experience as a Nutritional Consultant and a Master Herbalist and is presently working fulltime as a Business and Health Coach and an internet marketer. She lives on Vancouver Island with her husband, Gerry.
