A great mentor is a total game changer.

 

Mentors in sports, business, and life can help you see the big picture. They offer support, help navigate difficult situations, and offer tips for success. It’s not a one-sided relationship though; mentors also learn and benefit. That’s why this article is exploring the power of mentors and mentees. We’ll also help you decide if taking on one of these roles is advantageous for you.

 

WHY HAVE A MENTOR

Entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker Jim Rohn summed it up very well when he said “Don’t take the casual approach to life. Casualness leads to casualties. Seek out the mentors that you need that will lead you to greatness in your field. If you’re not willing to learn from others, who are you willing to learn from?”

 

This quote is very powerful and doesn’t just apply to mentees in business, but sports as well. A mentor is an advisor or coach with experience in the area you’re looking to improve. They can help you make connections, answer questions, and guide you to accomplish your goals quicker. Mentors are usually people who train just as hard as you, but have been doing it for longer; an efficient way to grow your skills.

 

QUALITIES OF A GOOD MENTOR

It’s not uncommon to have multiple mentors. As we mentioned there are mentors for different areas of your life, but you also may need a new mentor as you surpass your goals and make new ones.

 

Whether you’re considering becoming a mentor, or looking for one, these are some beneficial qualities to consider.

  • TRUST: The mentor and mentee should feel they can count on each other to always be honest and put their best foot forward.
  • EXPERTISE: The mentor should be able to offer valuable insight, helping to develop critical skills.
  • PERSPECTIVES: A mentor who can offer new perspectives for the mentee will be better able to support their growth.
  • COMPATIBILITY: Being comfortable with each other and sharing a mutual respect will benefit the relationship.

 

BENEFITS OF BEING A MENTOR

Understandably, mentees get the most out of the relationship. However, mentees can provide personal and professional value to their mentor.

  • Having a mentee is motivational. They become a good reason to network or push yourself. If you’re helping them train for an athletic event, you may find yourself pushing limits and improving your skills.
  • Mentees can provide information and trends that mentors weren’t aware of.
  • Mentorship offers fulfillment as you help others in ways you wish you were helped.
  • Mentees can remind you of lessons you’ve forgotten. For example, if you’ve played basketball for years and are mentoring a young player, passing on lessons to them about being a good teammate may remind you of qualities long forgotten.

 

HOW TO BE A GOOD MENTEE

Your mentor will benefit you, only as much as you’re willing. In order to make the most out of the opportunity your mentor is providing, you need to be present and willing to learn. These tips can help you get the most out of your mentorship.

  • BE ENGAGED: Showing sincere interest will motivate your mentor to continue sharing their knowledge with you. It will also help you learn more from them.
  • TAKE ACTION: You don’t always have to follow your mentor’s advice, but let them see you’ve at least considered the options. Be open to the observations your mentor is providing.
  • BE HONEST: Your mentor will need honest feedback from your experiences. Remember your mentor is here to help you, but is also learning from you. If you’re preparing for a race, for example, but your time isn’t improving as expected, your mentor needs to know so you can work together to adjust your plan and still achieve your goals.
  • RESPECT THEIR TIME: Your mentor is here for you, but they do have other responsibilities. Be prepared for each meeting with specific questions, as well as results from your last meeting. Showing some gratitude for their time and investment in you won’t hurt either.

 

As you can see, whether you’re advancing your career goals or improving your athletic performance, the mentor-menteerelationship is profitable for both. Connecting with like-minded people is both motivating and comforting. Remember, if you’re not willing to learn from others, who are you willing to learn from?