Commandments…why do we need guidance and structure around something that is essentially a business relationship?
We all need someone who inspires us to be better versions of ourself.
The original ten commandments were inscribed in stone tablets and given to Moses as instruction for the people to live a good and faithful life. He was then to go forth and share this new piece of information with everyone in the land. The commandments have endured time, giving us a framework in which to live. I say a framework because over the years the exact meaning of these laws has been skewed, translated and dissected, but essentially they still all have the same meanings. They are the do’s and don’ts of being a good person. Using them as my inspiration I decided it is time to share the Barefoot Mentor Ten Commandments of Mentoring, my framework in which I set up each and every mentoring relationship to give you form, strength and security.
The Barefoot Mentor 10 Commandments.
- Honour your mentor by showing vigilance and enthusiasm in the relationship. Make the connection solid by taking the lead in organisation and ensuring notes and feedback are shared.
- Always be polite and attentive, being present in a relationship is the key to understanding. Be honest and forthcoming, have high expectations of yourself. Do what you say you will, when you say you will.
- Put into practise guidance you receive. Every piece of advice is valuable depending on how you take and implement it. If it doesn’t work out as planned, you have learned a lesson and have something to share back and create valuable discussion.
- Give as much as you take. Find ways to share your unique thoughts and ideas to benefit you both. Sharing is a two way street.
- Do not make yourself into your mentors likeness, challenge yourself to flourish as your own person.
- Explore outside your comfort zone. Without stretching yourself there is no growth. Go forth with confidence, your mindset will be projected to all you meet.
- Take time to Network, use connections and associations to elevate yourself. Manage to make far reaching mutually beneficial relationships.
- Share your wins and accomplishments, celebrate all the good that comes to both of you.
- Never covet someone else’s mentor. Find your own that meets your specific needs and personality. What is right for them is not always right for you.
- Spread the benefits of mentoring, modern culture uses the word often to mean teacher, manager, boss, senior relation or friend equivalent. Great mentoring relationships are ones where both parties benefit from knowing one another.
Utilise these and you will always be a great mentoree.
Share to be inspired, be inspired to share.
Mentoring. Successful people never reach their goals alone.
