You hear it all of the time when singers or entertainers are being interviewed the interviewer will ask who the artists loved to listen to while they were learning their craft because those are the people who have had an influence on the artist’s work. As a writer or an entrepreneur you are following in the footsteps of those who came before you. You are influenced by your teachers, the books you have read the seminars you have attended, other bloggers, your life experiences, and your general environment.
If you are an online entrepreneur on a mission to constantly improve and sharpen the saw, you’ve got to be purposeful about finding good mentors and establishing a relationship with them that is mutually beneficial for both of you. But I also want to mention that it is possible to establish a relationship with a mentor who is no longer living.
Sounds weird, right? But it is possible. I consider author Napoleon Hill to be one of my top mentors. I was reading his book, The Law of Success, where he mentions assembling a council of imaginary advisers made up of historical figures that inspired him. You can assemble your own imaginary council of advisers and appoint your heroes and mentors to meet regularly and give your guidance and direction.
All you have to do is create a list of people you admire, what qualities they possess that you would like to cultivate in yourself, and what accomplishments they have made that you would also like to make.
As for mentors who are still living, and who are within your reach, make an effort to reach out to them and ask if they would be willing to mentor you. The worst that could happen is that they could say no, but if you do not ask you will not give them the opportunity to say yes. One thing I know for sure is that we teach that which we most need to learn, and when you teach you solidify what you already know. Any prominent person in their field knows that you’ve got to start somewhere, and if they are wise they know that in taking the time to mentor you they deepen their knowledge and skill while also giving back.
Don’t make the mistake of trying to blaze a trail on your own.
So, if you want to develop a new skill cultivate some new habits that will support your success. Be diligent and disciplined, but also have fun with it. And be sure to sign up for my email list so that you can get weekly updates and tips that do not appear on the blog.
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I have my mentors but it didn’t dawn on me to actually write out why I think of them as such. This will improve my focus on my goals. Thanks
Glynis,
You’re welcome.
We all have something to learn and something to teach.
Hi Evelyn,really liked your post and what you said about “we teach that which we most need to learn, and when you teach you solidify what you already know”…I guess this leads us on the path on digging deaper in our ressources and finding our personal branding & contribution to the community…
Vero,
Yes! Digging deep is where our treasure is. Thanks for your comment.
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