4 Critical Things to Look for in a Mentor
Mentors create success.
It’s that simple. Having a strong mentor in your life can make a huge impact in the levels of success you are able to reach in your business, your personal life, and your spiritual journey. In fact, it may be the single most important thing you can do to advance your life in the direction you want it to go.
YOU are the designer of your life.
I have spent a lot of time in self-reflection over the past few weeks. Daily self-reflection has been a practice in my life for many years now; however, it seems the past few weeks I have been “in the zone” of self-reflection. Really examining where my life is now, thinking about how I got here, what my influences and inspirations have been and then contemplating where to go from here. As I thought, I remembered my mentors, how they influenced me and helped me realize success as I know it today and who push me to continue reaching for the “Big Dreams”. I wanted to share some thoughts with you on what mentoring is and what good mentors do, so I put together a short video for you to lay it all out.
Take a few minutes and watch now…but before you do, you may want to grab a piece of paper to take a few short notes, because this is good stuff I’m about to share.
Well, there you have it my friends, my thoughts on mentoring. I have been so fortunate to have some high quality direct mentors in my life as well as many indirect mentors. They have all pushed me, developed me, molded me, and shaped me into the person I am today. I am grateful to God for bringing them into my life to teach me the things I need to reach the fullness of all life can offer me.
You have, innately within you, the wherewithal to determine where your life goes and how you get there. I heard it said once, that success does not happen by chance, success happens on purpose.
Personal Development is key for any serious entrepreneur or leader. If you don’t already have one, I encourage you to go out and actively seek a direct mentor and some good solid indirect mentors that you can learn from. Trust me, it’s the most important thing you can do for yourself.
Leave some comments below and let me know how your mentor has had an impact on your success.
Mentoring You to Success!
PS. I also offer personal one on one mentoring and coaching with customized plans for your individual needs. Click here to contact me and find out more.
Comments are closed.
Recent Posts
- Prophetic Inspiration: God’s Faithfulness
- Inspire With Fire #195: Favor Keys Revealed
- What Does It Mean To Partner With God?
- Prophetic Word: Go Ahead and Jump!
- Prophetic Word: New Doors Are Opening
- Prophetic Word: Time to Dream Again in December
- Prophetic Word: 4 Steps to Eliminate Distractions and Activate Your “Now” Season
- Prophetic Word: Occupy in October
- 5 Ways Christians Can Honor Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
- Why is Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Important for Christians?
Donate
Jump T-Shirt
Dr. Krista Abbott is an Internet revivalist, author, speaker, creator, and coach spreading a message of love and hope. She is passionate about helping people discover and fulfill their purpose in life while equipping them with the resources they need to realize success. Through her business, Krista serves multiple international clients in the areas of publishing, writing, product development, social media management, internet marketing, and leadership training, as well as business and life coaching.
Follow on:
STAY CONNECTED
By signing up you will receive regular encouraging words or “Notes from Heaven”, updated blog posts, and information about upcoming events, and special offers.
Pingback: seo agency leicester
Pingback: website
Hi Krista,
My first time here,but would like to say yes indeed someone you can look up to especially when you are starting out is very critical to your success.Thanks again for the wonderful insights!
Cheers
kebabope Morapedi
Great post Krista! I know that by having mentors in my life…..has given me more clarity and guidance than ever before.
I remember when i felt like i was running in circles…trying
to find my way to success. Thanks to all the wonderful
leaders that are in my life…..i have now developed the
habits that most successful entrepreneurs live by.
Thanks Krista for all you do…and i will be sharing this post with my friends 🙂
Antoine Grant
I enjoyed this post so much I’m going to share it all day today..:- ) I appreciate the information and insight shared!
LOL – great stuff Corey! Thank you for the comments and the shares! Appreciate you!
Great post and video Krista! The four critical tips you shared are definitely the role of the mentor. As a mentor pushes us out of our comfort zone, we need to realize that we are also being pushed in the direction of success.
.-= Michelle Shutter´s last blog ..Video Marketing? Where Do I Begin? =-.
@Michelle Shutter, Thanks Michelle! Appreciate the comments. Having people help push us into what we need in order to achieve success is crucial.
Krista,
I have invested thousands and thousands of dollars over the years to have access to mentors. Learning directly from someone who has what you want or is where you want to be is the very best way to fast track your ability to get there yourself!
Excellent post!
Eddie
.-= Eddie Espiritu´s last blog ..Ready, Fire, Aim! =-.
@Eddie Espiritu, Thanks Eddie. I have done the same (spent thousands) over the years on personal development and mentoring programs. It is a fantastic way to fuel your passions and create success.
Krista,
I have worked with several mentors. Each mentor brings me further along my path toward creating what I want. Without a mentor, I often get distracted and lose focus.
Thanks for a great post.
@Dr. Erica Goodstone, Dr. Erica, I would venture to say many of us, myself included, can have a tendency to get distracted from our goals without someone there to coach us, hold us accountable and keep us on track toward our goals. I am thankful for the many mentors I have had in my life – they make a huge difference!
Krista
Hey Krista,
This is an awesome post. Mentors are so critical in our lives. They help us to break free from our current state and move forward into another which could not have been done without them. They have the lessons we need to know to get to where we want to go.
Thanks for sharing this with us all.
Make it a great day!
God Bless,
-ed
@Edward, Right on Edward! You said it!!
Wow, Krista, this is top notch information you shared here!
I have been blessed to have a few truly inspiring mentors in my life ~ and yes, they have assisted me in stretching and growing and achieving dreams that would not have been possible without these people by my side.
I like to think of mentors as the guides in our life who show us the shortcuts so we don’t have to hit all the road bumps and detours that life would otherwise through you’re way! We’ll likely still hit a few, but with the assistance of a mentor, we can navigate over or around rather than getting thrown off the track completely! 🙂
Thanks for another very inspiring video!
.-= Beth Allen´s last blog ..The Torch Flash Mob =-.
@Beth Allen,
Hey Beth, thank you for your very kind words. I agree, mentors are like guides to show us the shortcut! Very nice way to put it!! I appreciate you so much!
Hi Krista,
I think that the first sign I was serious in business was when I had a mentor take me on. The accountability was a key point for me as well. I wouldn’t be where I am without the mentor.
Thanks for sharing this.
.-= Debbie Stevens´s last blog ..Lessons from a License Plate =-.
@Debbie Stevens, So glad that you have enjoyed the experience of a good mentor. I can appreciate the value that mentors offer because I, like you, have experienced the results in my life.
Krista, I’m learning so much in such a short time,
I love it, keep it coming!!
Thank You
Leonor
@Leonor,
Hi Lenor,
Thank you for commenting. I am so glad that you have been able to receive some benefit from my posts. I’ll keep ’em coming…anything in particular you would like to see addressed?
Four great points for the protegee to look for in a mentor. Originally, I confused the concept of a mastermind group to a mentoring program all because I worked alone for so long. Now, I guess it’s time to get a coach… what’s the best way of qualifying a coach?
Thanks!
@ecstewart
@EC (Lisa) Stewart, Lisa, GREAT question! When looking for a coach, it is best to look for someone who you can connect with on a personal level, someone you can trust and who also meet the four requirements of a mentor discussed in this post.
Here Here Krista! Rockin’ post… Couldnt agree more!
How easily we can be turned from our dreams, having my mentor has most def helped me understand the importance of focus, I started moving forward with the gentle guidance of my mentor. It felt safe to step outside the comfort zones and really step up!
Keep the fabulous posts coming Krista! 🙂
.-= Anna Johnston´s last blog ..Hello world! =-.
@Anna Johnston, Hey Anna! Thanks for the comments. I like the way you phrase it…”gentle guidance” That is another quality of a great mentor!
Hey Krista this is a terrific post/video! I definitely have had quite a few mentors who have helped me personally. When I first got started, I thought I could “do it all myself” and it wasn’t until I got my first mentor that I was actually able to become more.
I started doing things that were outside of my comfort zone and have now changed my comfort zone to another level! I love how they challenge us and turn us into better people. “Opportunities for Improvement” is the best way you can look at weaknesses.
Keep up the great work Krista!
-Chris Hughes
The Juggling Entrepreneur
.-= Chris Hughes´s last blog ..Is The Pursuit of Happiness A Bunch Of BS? =-.
@Chris Hughes,
I know the feeling Chris! I started out with an independent streak myself…but quickly learned that having someone speak into my life as “my own personal expert” has been most beneficial. Wouldn’t have it any other way right now.
Hi Krista!
This is really a terrific post! You are fantastic on video. What a great topic and so vital. I love that you pointed out that mentors stretch you….they don’t baby you! I really appreciate this info!
Mentor Mama
@Nancy Burke Barr, Awww….shucks Mentor Mama, you are so kind with your compliments. And YOU my tribal friend, are a fantastic mentor!!
Thanks Krista, I have a few books “mentored by a Millionaire” and such but I need the real deal.
.-= Bill Cowan´s last blog ..Training Wheels of Life =-.
@Bill Cowan,
Hi Bill, Books are great forms for indirect mentoring, but having “the real deal” is where the meat and potatoes are when it comes to impacting your life personally. Let me know if you need help finding someone that you can mesh with for mentoring. I’d be glad to help any way I can, I believe it is just that important!
Hey Krista!
We are so lucky to be enveloped in a community that offers such a vast number of high quality mentors to learn from. It’s so true, we all need others to help push us out of our comfort zones and keep us accountable.
I’m wondering if you have any tips on how to approach a person that you would like to have as a mentor? Personally I’ve experienced times in which I wanted to ask someone to guide me, but didn’t feel that I knew them well enough to ask. I mean, it is a huge commitment on the part of the mentor, so if it’s somebody that you look up to (which it definitely should be…) it can feel like “overstepping”.
I love how you choose to view weaknesses as “Opportunities for Improvement”! Great job on this post…thanks for your words of wisdom….
.-= Kathy Jodrey´s last blog ..Dr. Wayne Dyer Power of Intention – Kindness Lessons =-.
@Kathy Jodrey,
Hey Kathy,
Great question! I believe in the “direct approach” method. People who have the value you need in a mentor, generally are only looking for those individuals that are hungry for what they have and will value what they offer. When a person approaches them and is able to articulate what they want, why they want it, and how they believe they (the mentor prospect) can help them, it gets their attention. My advice would be to first identify the person, study their style, give some solid thought on how you are going to approach them, and when you do it is important to have a clear, concise message to share with them about yourself, your intentions, and your goals. Then just ask them. Most people with a mentors heart are going to respond to this kind of approach.
Hope that helps!
Hi Krista,
You are absolutely right! Having a mentor in your life either directly or indirectly and better yet both is very critical to moving forward and achieving higher levels of success.
I agree that reading books, learning online from mentors and programs is a great commitment to your success you can give to yourself.
But I also know that having a one on one mentor is so so so powerful. And yes they will push you beyond what you thought are your limits. I have had a few one on one amazing mentors in my life in the past 5 years and I can not believe the distance I have traveled and how far I have come so far.
One huge element that also has to be added to the mix, is that you must be COACHABLE.
Keep up the great value and content coming.
.-= Diyana Alcheva — DiDi´s last blog ..6 Reasons You Should Have a Facebook Fan Page for Your Business as an Entrepreneur? =-.
@Diyana Alcheva — DiDi, GREAT ONE Didi!!! Being Coachable is an absolute must!!!
Aloha Krista,
All I can say is “yes, yes, & yes”! I 100% agree with your article and your video! Mentors are the key to always moving forward and knowing you are on the path you desire.
I love your emphasis on accountability. This is such a crucial step in the process. You communicate so well on video!
Love it!
Aloha,
Kellie 🙂
.-= Kellie Hosaka´s last blog ..Are You Happy & Fulfilled In Your Life? =-.
@Kellie Hosaka, Aww…thanks Kellie! I appreciate you so much!
Hey Krista,
Having a mentor helps enormously…. in so many ways! Some great advice on what we need when seeking a mentor.
I found your video to be very informative. You make some great points… in particular regarding accountability. I’ve always considered it to be a cornerstone of any program geared towards success and personal development.
Looking forward to hearing more….
Chris
@Chris McCargar,
Thank you Chris! Appreciate your kind words. I agree the cornerstone of success is personal development! I continually develop personally…and encourage others to do the same.
Krista,
What a powerful post. I think you are really on to something here. We all need mentor’s no matter what stage we are at or what we are working on.
Thanks for sharing.
.-= Sally Bath´s last blog ..4 Hour work week? You’ve got to be kidding… =-.
@Sally Bath,
I agree, mentors come for a season and a reason sometimes. I have had mentors come into my life for particular purposes. Others come in and build on what is already there.
Krista,
Love the “opportunity to do better” phraseology. I’m going to use that one!
You’re a natural on video, and your points are well taken—especially the fourth one: accountability. If I know that I’ll be sharing my progress with someone else, I’ll be pushed a lot harder.
.-= Darlene Davis´s last blog ..Lessons From A Half Pint: Wag More, Bark Less =-.
@Darlene Davis, Feel free to use it all you want Darlene!! 🙂 Thank you for kind words on my videos. Much appreciated!
Just met with my Mentor today. Working on my Spiritual connections. He’s helping me keep myself connected to my inner being or my real self. Good stuff Mentoring. Thanks Krista and keep after us.
@Nelson Schroeder,
Good Stuff Nelson! Spirituality is an important aspect of our person to develop.
Krista,
You present these points so well! I love your 4 key points on finding a mentor. Moving out of our comfort zone is something that we usually won’t move out of without the support and coaching of a good mentor.
Thanks for sharing this subject with us,
Val 🙂
.-= Val wilcox´s last blog ..Everyone Has A Dream =-.
@Val wilcox,
My pleasure Val. My mentor has kicked me off the “comfort sofa” once or twice! LOL I’m glad he did too!
Krista
Hey Krista, What a terrific video! You nailed one of the biggest challenges in this kind of business when you spoke about accountability. From my personal experience, having an accountability partner has been difficult to maintain. Perhaps because I am so independent, and perhaps because it is hard! However, I am fortunate to have a couple of people in my life who keep me in line, and aren’t afraid to point out my flaws when I need a good kick in the butt. Having a mentor can be one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this important topic, and in a way that makes sense and is right on point!
Mary Lou
.-= Mary Lou Kayser´s last blog ..A Sneaky Way to Burn Extra Calories throughout the Day without Even Trying =-.
@Mary Lou Kayser,
Thanks for your awesome words Mary Lou. Accountability partners are hard to maintain, but well worth the effort. I think it’s great you have some folks in your life that help keep you grounded.
Krista
Hi Krista – Having a direct mentor is key to success. You can read and watch all the videos in the world, but until you have one on one coaching and mentorship, you won’t begin to see your full potential. You are definitely right that both are very important:)
.-= Glyna Humm´s last blog ..Celebrate the Small Stuff! The Secret to Your Home Business Goals! =-.
@Glyna Humm,
Hi Glyna,
Completely agree. Indirect mentors do help, but can’t compare to the real thing…those that call us up, set us straight, hold us accountable to our commitments and encourage us to reach for our dreams.
Krista
You are so right about having great mentors. I have had many and look forward to being more of a mentor to others myself. Thanks for a great post!
.-= Beverly Monical´s last blog ..Who Is Dr. Gilbert Kaats? =-.
@Beverly Monical,
Hi Beverly,
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. I really appreciate that.
You really have a GREAT mindset for mentoring. It’s all about giving to others to help them reach their goals. I’m glad to hear you have that desire. We need all the mentors in the world that we can get!
Rock on with it!!
Krista
Great video Krista! You rock 🙂 I love the intro…
Everyone needs a mentor/coach, even the top performers have coaches and mentors.
Actually, at present I have a time management and productivity mentor, and I work with a fantastic lady in network marketing who acts as a mentor for me also.
I always try to work with people who know more than me as it brings me up to a higher level.
Thanks again Krista for being you!
.-= Gavin Mountford´s last blog ..RSS Feed Me Some Yummy Blog Posts… Syndication Power! =-.
@Gavin Mountford,
Gavin,
Time Management mentor…that’s awesome! Where can we find one of those?
I heard someone speaking the other day (think it was Bob Proctor) and he said that our future is determined by the 5 people we spend our time with. I’m glad that my Top 5 are already where I am striving to be. Looks like you have that going on in your life too.
I’m glad we’ve connected, I’ll get up at 5 am to talk to you anyday! 🙂
Krista
Hi krista,
Great post 🙂 Your “4 Critical Things to Look for in a Mentor” can indeed help other people grow and become successful. Thanks for sharing krista. More Power.
.-= Jon Alfredsson´s last blog ..5 Reasons Why You Need An Accountability Partner =-.
@Jon Alfredsson,
Dr. Jon,
Honored you stopped by! Appreciate your words. From the looks of your comment love link, we were in the same zone this week with our posts. I’m gonna cruise on over and see what you had to say about accountability, now.
Krista
Krista,
Good stuff, Good Mentors in your life is very important. Sometimes you simply need to just follow their lead. Accountability is the strongest key!
Bill
.-= Bill Hartman´s last blog ..Day 8 Reflections =-.
@Bill Hartman,
Hey Bill,
Indeed, indeed my friend. Accountability keeps us focused and moving forward. As leaders, it is crucial that we have this in our lives as well as provide this same service to those we are leading.
Krista
Hey Krista
That was a greaat post. Those 4 different points that you need when you are looking for a mentor are big. I totally agree with you that the fourth is the biggest. Having someone that will keep you accountable to your commitments is big. It can really make a big difference in creating success.
Totally ReTweeting this out.
Thanks
Steve
.-= Steven Downward´s last blog ..About “Getting Things Done” In Your Business… =-.
@Steven Downward,
Steven,
Great to see you again. Thanks for the RT and the comments.
You know after this post, I tried to think of a successful person I know who did not have a mentor, and I couldn’t. I really believe it IS the difference.
Krista