How to Work It Mentees, resist the temptation to implore, “Just give me the answer!”  Outside of specific subject matter expertise or in perilous circumstances requiring a strong hand, mentors should not even recommend a course of action.  You are not a child needing or seeking parental instruction.   There are practical reasons for not feeding you an answer.  First, history has proven I am...

Hiding in Plain Sight You can cast a wider net since specific subject matter expertise or a close personal relationship is not required. A mentor may be a member of your cycling group, a former business colleague, a fellow supporter of your favorite charity, etc.  A mentor is not a prospective client, as the possibility of a business relationship unavoidably casts a pall over the mentee’s...

Stating the Case It is simple. Mentorship enables growth you cannot achieve alone. Once you recognize its value, you find it is only appropriate for two “select” groups: those who want more out of life and those who want to give more to life. The Association for Talent Development defines mentoring as a reciprocal relationship helping (i) mentees develop confidence and improved decision-making...

Our Natural Tendency Scarcity and abundance are present in every situation; our perspective decides which prevails. I feel like the country and western singer who introduces his next song by mentioning he sees a lot of himself in it and “you might too.” Fortunately, it is an upbeat tune with a hopeful ending. Life encourages an inclination towards scarcity. While no longer cave dwellers clubbing...

Ahh, if we could stop at peace and joy, what a wonderful world it would be. Not really; we are made for more. Our moms were right; each of us possesses a unique talent meant to be used.  For these reasons, a fulfilling life requires accomplishment - the ambition to do something accompanied by the effort necessary to bring it to fruition.   Why Do You Aspire? The pursuit of accomplishment...