The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck
Do you remember the first time you tried something new? For many of us, it’s often an awkward and even scary situation. We worry that we won’t measure up to expectations, whether our own or that of an audience or coach. But everyone starts from scratch at some point, including all athletes, actors, dancers, writers, business people—essentially everyone! With persistence and commitment, we gradually get better. While many of us do not become famous superstars in a given activity, we can learn to love our new adventures.
One of the best ways to improve upon a new activity is to seek a mentor. Mentors are people who are experts in a given activity. They often love what they do and are more than willing to help newcomers along. Contrary to what many think, mentors don’t always have to be older than us. It depends on what age we take on a new activity. For instance, a dance instructor may be years younger if you wait until later in life to take on this new adventure. A mentor simply needs to be someone who has the time, the passion, and the desire to help teach others the same trade.
Here are some of the top reasons to seek a mentor:
1. Provides accountability. When you find a mentor, you are more likely to get the job done because you won’t want to disappoint your mentor. Further, you will feel obligated because your mentor spends time on you. The least you can do is ensure you do your part.
2. Offers encouragement. Just when you feel like giving up or you consider not trying at all, your mentor steps in as your cheerleader.
3. Brings experience. As a professional and a person who enjoys a trade, a mentor brings years of experience. This means a mentor can give you the advice you need and answer all of your questions. With anything new, you will have lots of questions.
4. Helps you improve. It always takes time to perfect a new activity. By listening to your mentor, you are likely to improve at a faster rate than if you had done it all on your own.
5. Pays attention. Sometimes you may just need someone to vent to. Someone who will listen to your fears, your ideas, your goals, and so much more. A mentor can help you through your frustrations and confusion, and steer you back on track. After all, your mentor has already been there. A mentor can be invaluable this way.
A mentor can provide a treasure chest full of information. Typically, a mentor is someone we admire because this person has typically overcome much adversity to become experienced. A mentor can become one of your best supporters and can even become a lifelong friend. Even if you aren’t looking for a new activity, but would like to improve on a certain area of your life, seeking a mentor can be beneficial. A mentor can help you get to the next level in your life. If you have a lot of experience, time, and passion, consider becoming a mentor yourself. You can make the big difference in the life or career of someone else.
Jill Starbuck has 20 years of experience as a business writer, editor, and market research analyst. She is a certified health coach through the Integrative Institute of Nutrition and a certified running coach through the Road Runners Club of America. She is also the co-owner of a running business. She can be reached at jillstarbuck@hotmail.com.
