Finding Mentors of Your Own

In order to reach any destination, you've got to take the steps yourself. You can't sit around and wait for others to help you—take action and you will find the help you need. Finding a mentor is about asking for help, advice and guidance. Most of us are afraid to ask for help. We seem to feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness. Actually, it is a sign of intelligence and awareness. Successful people know what their strengths are, and they know they have to depend on others to bolster their weaknesses. They are not shy about asking for help when they need it.

So how do you go about cultivating mentors? Here are a few hints:

• Be selective. Study the people around you and find someone you like, admire, trust, and respect. Look for someone who has skill or experience you would like to have.

• Be persistent. High achievers are often available, but they're always busy. It may take many tries before you ever reach the person. On the other hand, most will be enthusiastic about giving back to someone who doesn't give up. After all, that's how they made it.

• Be specific about what you want to know. Write down any questions you might have. Don't just sit back and wait for words of wisdom to change your life; let your perspective mentor know how you think he or she might be able to help.

• Be willing and eager to work. Ask your potential mentor how you can be of help. Volunteer to work on a special project. Join trade associations, get on committees, do your fair share. Come up with specific plans of action and ask your mentor for advice and suggestions.

You create your opportunities by asking for them.

—Patty Hansen,
writer