Having studied and read the biographies of the most successful people on the planet, they all mentioned something very specific that has attributed to where they are today. This is something that we take for granted but really is essential to our natural growth process.

The most successful organizations and businesses in the world have been founded by visionary entrepreneurs and once you dig a little deeper, you will find that these individuals who have questioned societal norms and put their thoughts and minds into creating their businesses have “found their calling or purpose”. Sounds simple right? There must be something that guides them through the journey of building their businesses to be what they would like to represent. Once you are able to read some of their stories you find that they all have something in common. They had someone to look up to – they had a mentor.

Mentoring is defined as: advising or training (especially of that of a younger colleague). Personally, I think mentoring is incredibly underrated. This is something that never receives the credit it deserves. Anyone who is anyone has to have that sort of guidance in their personal and professional lives to help steer them through uncharted territories. The type of guidance that would allow that younger, lesser experienced individual to not make the same mistakes that their elders have committed. Any one from successful celebrities, to professional athletes to business leaders, politicians and even your current boss have had that ONE person where they “caught a break” or gave them the opportunity and platform to succeed and to build their story. They are more than willing to admit it as well.

Experience is the best teacher and there is nothing like it. It is something that can never be taught in classrooms, books, texts, etc. Experiences through life build our character, our thoughts and sometimes our persona. It helps shape our views towards the greater society. For better or for worse – it is necessary. The best part is you do not need to spend money to earn a piece of a paper or get a degree in “experience” to maintain it. You just have to live your life.

On a personal note, I am a strong advocate in the power of mentoring. Being the oldest of my siblings, my parents have instilled and emphasized that what you do as an individual will be watched by the eyes of your younger brothers. To never forget that, that what you do leaves an impression. Being a strong advocate for the power of mentoring – I was involved in the Orange County Big Brother Program for over 5 years, where they pair like-minded individuals with younger kids who have not been able to have a stable role model in their lives to navigate through life’s challenges. It was so rewarding and even more so, having considered my personal circumstances.

Understand that even if you do not think that what you are doing could serve as being a mentor to someone – think again. Look around your household or even your workplace; there is always someone who needs that guidance. Become a mentor today and start viewing yourself in that light. Someone needs to hear your story. They will thank you for it later – without you even realizing it.

To all my readers, who do you consider your mentor? Inspiration?