WHO'S YOUR MENTOR?

Who shows you the ropes, teaches you the tricks and
encourages you when things go wrong? Who shows you the way?
This week I had several people contact me about coaching,
which is a very good thing. But, I also had several
conversations with people who "don't need a coach" and don't
seem to have any mentors. I noticed they didn't seem as
happy, as fulfilled or as clear about their goals as the
people who do have mentors. Is that you?
Over and over again, I'm struck that the real winners in
life always stand on the shoulders of those who went ahead
of them. Winners ALWAYS have mentors! They learn from the
experts and benefit from the success of others.
Sometimes they have a personal coach--and I think that's a
good thing! But often they have informal relationships with
men and women who are willing to teach them. Sometimes, they
have mentors who aren’t even alive anymore--they read
biographies and learn vital lessons from men and women who
preceded us and left clues along the way.
One of my most valuable sources of information are the
seminars, workshops and lectures I attend every year. I
remember hearing a colleague say he wouldn't attend anymore
seminars "because they cut the budget and (his employer)
won't pay for it anymore." How terribly short-sighted!
The cost of workshops is nothing! The cost of travel,
tuition and hotels is trivial if you learn one new idea or
avoid one mistake. The chance to rub shoulders with the best
and brightest in your field is priceless! In 2012, "just do
it!"
Double (or triple!) your budget for books and seminars, for
coaching and teaching. Call the most successful people you
know and buy them lunch at the best restaurant in town so
you can pick their brains. If appropriate, hire a coach.
(Isn’t it about time you had your own coach?!) Are there
seminars you "might" attend next year? Register now! Make it
a Christmas present or use any excuse you have to, but get
the "helping hand" you need to make 2012 your best year
EVER!