Mentors are quite possibly the greatest time-saving technique ever created. So why don't we hear about them more often? It's just one of those hidden secrets of time management that very few people are aware of, apparently even the people that write the time management books! If you only take one technique from this book - make it getting yourself a strong and wise mentor. It's just that important.
Mentors can be powerful in your life for many reasons. The first of which is that they can take years off the learning curve. Things that would take you 10, 20, 30, 50 years to learn they can teach you in a matter of hours, days or weeks. Clearly, this makes mentoring the ultimate time management skill. I can't think of anything that will save you more time, money and aggravation (with the possible exception of choosing the right spouse. I'm just kidding - sort of).
Mentors also typically bring with them a huge network of individuals and resources that they have gathered over the years. People and resources that it would take a lifetime (if ever) to get access to, they can share with you today. Many people who obtain a mentor failed to recognize this great resource and therefore don't take advantage of it. Don't let this be you! Make sure to explore and utilize these resources to their full and natural benefit.
A person can also have more than one mentor, and I highly recommend that you try to obtain two to five good mentors that each bring something different to the table. In all likelihood, these people will be your greatest resource and account for the vast majority of your success in life. This is provided they utilize them properly and take the bulk of their suggestions. I am always surprised how many people get access to a fantastic mentor and then fail to take their recommendations. Knowledge means you know something, but wisdom is utilizing that knowledge for positive gain. Therefore it's much better to be wise then knowledgeable.
Mentors are also a great source of support and give you someone you trust that you can talk to about your future plans, hopes and fears. Mentors will often become your best friends. My definition of a best friend is "the one who brings out the best in me." Typically this person is going to be a mentor of some kind.
Remember that your mentor(s) does a lot for you, so be sure to show appreciation, speak well of them to others, and be of service to them in any way shape or form that you can. All good relationships are based on reciprocity, liking, support and trust.
Start today to search out possible mentors around you and be bold and specific and asking them to become your mentor and exactly what you are seeking in a mentoring relationship. They will want to know what it will look like and what your expectations are. I always tell them that I will take up a minimum of their time, and then I try to keep that promise.
Sometimes when you're first starting out it seems very difficult to find mentors. But remember that while you are looking you can have many what I call "Remote Mentors." These take the form of books, audio CDs or MP3s, videos or Internet contacts that you can get access to relatively quickly. You are still getting the benefit of years of experience, it's just indirect, and in most cases, you can't ask questions. But it's a great place to start building your knowledge and wisdom while you wait to secure a direct and permanent mentor.
Prof. Paul J. Cline MA CAGS CAP Ed.D (ABD) is a Trainer / Seminar Leader, University Professor, Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) and local expert on Addictions and Mental Health. Paul is owner of Advanced Training Seminars, providing seminars, consulting and coaching based in St. Petersburg, Florida (727) 204-0779. Visit our website at: http://www.advancedtrainingseminars.com Check out our selection of FREE articles and Useful Links & Resources.
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