Why Your Answer to “Who Are Your Mentors?” Matters More Than You Think

“I don’t know,” my friend said, a slight unease clouding his expression.

We were sitting in a café, coffee cups sitting idly on the table, as he pondered my question: “Who are your mentors?”

I’ve made it a habit this year to ask the question in various meetings, both formal and casual.

The trend I’m noticing now?

The people who can readily name their mentors are almost always the ones who are leading in their respective fields. They tend to be the go-getters, the innovators, the leaders — not just in title, but in action and in results.

This made me think.

The Importance of Mentorship

Why does having a mentor make such a difference?

The obvious answer is that mentors can provide guidance, accountability, and invaluable insights that you may not be able to gain on your own.

But I believe above all else that mentors can give us an example of whats possible.

They’ve walked the road before us, they know the obstacles and opportunities. By modelling someone else who’s done what you want to do before, can significantly accelerate your pace when you navigate the complexities of career and life.

The Many Forms of Mentorship

And let’s dispel a common myth: To me mentorship doesn’t always have to be a formal, one-on-one relationship.

In today’s digital age, your mentors can be authors whose books you study, podcasters whose shows you always listen with a pen and paper in hand, or industry experts whose videos have given you “Aha!” moments.

These are all valid forms of mentorship that can significantly contribute to your growth.

My Wake-up Call

The unease in my friend’s eyes mirrored the uncertainty that many of us feel but are reluctant to voice.

Not having mentors often reveals a deeper problem too.

Mentors make all the difference when you know your goals. But if you don’t really know what you want in life and business, what’s the point of mentors anyways?

If you find it hard to answer the mentor-question, it might be time to reconsider how you approach your personal and professional development.

Your Turn

I invite you to think about what you want to achieve in your life and career. Really give yourself a moment to think. Just you, a good drink, and a pen and a paper.

Then ask yourself, who could you pick? Who are the mentors that have already done what you aim for?

The value of having a mentor can’t be overstated.

The next time someone asks you, “Who are your mentors?”, don’t let ‘I don’t know’ be your answer. Your future success might just depend on it.