The Hidden Power of Mentorship: Unseen Impact, Unspoken Gratitude
Myself and my business coach, Pete
A recent presentation in one of my peer groups has me thinking about mentorship and how much value there is in it, yet it's one of those things we often take for granted.
Whether it’s a seasoned professional guiding us through our career, a friend offering life advice, or a colleague helping us navigate office culture, mentors come in all shapes and sizes.
I think about my teachers and professors who encouraged me to pursue subjects I was passionate about, or a manager who saw potential in me and pushed me to take on new challenges. I have come to realize that many mentors have no idea the profound impact they have on us, and conversely, we often don’t realize the impact we have on others.
I realized that sometimes it's just that one person who you look up to saying, "You’ve got this”. Someone who offers hope when there is none. They can offer new perspectives that have helped me to see problems in a new light and find creative solutions.
Mentorship can also be found in networking opportunities. It was through networking that I met John Eisner, a generous mentor and fellow non-profit leader who helped me lead launch Just Us, our charitable arm that offers free and low-cost counselling.
My business coach was another person who helped me open many doors and believe in my potential. These mentors might see their guidance as a small gesture, but for me, it was life-changing.
The Unseen Ripple Effect
What’s fascinating is that mentorship isn’t just a one-way street. The guidance we receive doesn’t just stop with us; it often ripples out, influencing how we interact with and mentor others. Here’s how:
Passing It Forward: The advice and wisdom we receive often get passed on to others. We become mentors in our own right, sharing what we’ve learned with friends, family and colleagues.
Creating a Supportive Culture: By valuing and practicing mentorship, we contribute to a culture of support and growth within our communities and workplaces.
Inspiring Others: Sometimes the mere act of overcoming challenges with the help of a mentor inspires others to seek out and value mentorship in their own lives.
A Personal Thank You
To all my mentors out there who might not realize the impact they've had on me: thank you! Your time, your wisdom, and your support have shaped me in ways you might never know.
And to those of us who are mentoring: even if we don’t see immediate results, rest assured that our efforts are making a difference.
Next time you offer a piece of advice or support someone through a tough time, remember that your words and actions might have a bigger impact than you think.
Likewise, let’s take a moment to appreciate those who have guided us along the way. Reach out, say thank you, and acknowledge the role they’ve played in your journey.
Mentorship is about more than just guidance; it’s about connection, growth, and the unseen influence we have on each other’s lives.
So, here’s to mentors everywhere—your impact is greater than you know, and your influence reaches further than you can imagine.