Mentors

The great ones change the way you think

When I think about some of the most important aspects of my career, mentorship always comes to mind. I have many people in my life that I consider both friends and mentors. What I’ve come to realize is that the best mentors are the ones that challenge my thinking. Some of these individuals are often not even in the tech industry but they know how to make me look at a situation from a different perspective. Often the topics are wide ranging from parenting to leadership to business. This has been invaluable to me and I’m grateful for these individuals sharing their time and wisdom with me. 

One such mentor who changed the way I think was a Major in the Army. In the early years of my military training, I never understood ‘false motivation’, which is when you act like you are enjoying something even when you definitely are not. To me, if something made me miserable, e.g. a long ruck march or marching in the rain, why would you express anything differently? Some people, however, would act like they were enjoying it. I was so practical and matter-of-fact that I just wanted to call it like I saw it. What this Major did for me was explain that even when the situation was out of my control, e.g. weather, my attitude was completely under my control. My attitude not only influenced how much I enjoyed/hated something but, more importantly, it affected the people around me. As a leader this really resonated with me. I didn’t want to be bringing the morale of my unit down. This mentor changed my entire perspective on things. 

Mentoring is a concept that is deeply rooted in history. It originates from the character Mentor in Homer's Odyssey. This ancient Greek epic, penned nearly 3,000 years ago, tells the story of Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, entrusting his friend Mentor with the education and guidance of his son, Telemachus, during his absence in the Trojan War. Mentor embodies the roles of teacher, guardian, and friend, setting a precedent for the mentor-mentee relationship.

Historically, mentorship has played a pivotal role in the success stories of many distinguished individuals. Notable examples include Maya Angelou's mentorship of Oprah Winfrey and Warren Buffett's guidance to Bill Gates. The importance of mentoring was further highlighted in the 1970s by Gerard R. Roche, a renowned executive recruiter, who, after surveying over a thousand top executives, reported that nearly two-thirds credited mentors for their success. According to his findings, those with mentors not only achieved financial success at a younger age but were also more satisfied with their career progression.

The profound impact that mentors can have extends far beyond the acquisition of new skills or knowledge. It involves the shaping of character, the refining of values, and sometimes, even altering the course of an individual's life trajectory. Mentors possess the unique ability to discern potential in their mentees that the latter may not see in themselves. This insight, coupled with their experience, can guide mentees through critical decisions, encourage them to take risks, and foster a sense of resilience in the face of adversity. The mentor-mentee relationship, therefore, is not merely transactional but transformational, often evolving into a lifelong bond that benefits both parties.

In the realm of historical mentor-mentee relationships, the bond between Socrates and Plato stands out as a paradigm of intellectual mentorship. Socrates, an ancient Greek philosopher, is renowned for his contributions to the field of ethics and his method of inquiry known as the Socratic method. Plato, his most famous student, went on to become an esteemed philosopher in his own right. Socrates' influence on Plato was profound, with Socrates' dialogues and philosophical methods laying the groundwork for Plato's work. This relationship did not just shape Plato's philosophical inquiries but also laid the foundations for Western philosophy. The legacy of their intellectual exchange demonstrates how a mentor's influence can ripple through time, affecting countless generations.

Another historically important mentor-mentee relationship was that of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. This one stands out as a testament to the power of mentorship in shaping the course of innovation and entrepreneurship. Thomas Edison, the prolific inventor known for his work on the electric light bulb and phonograph, met Henry Ford, a young engineer with a passion for automobiles, in 1896. Ford, at the time, was working on his early automobile models and sought Edison's advice and support. When Ford shared his plans for a gasoline-powered vehicle, Edison, recognizing the potential in Ford's vision, encouraged him emphatically, famously banging his fist on the table in approval. This moment of encouragement was pivotal for Ford, affirming his belief in his project and fueling his determination to succeed.

Edison's mentorship extended beyond mere encouragement; he provided Ford with critical insights into the nature of invention and business, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, strategic thinking, and the willingness to take calculated risks. Their relationship evolved into a deep friendship, characterized by mutual respect and a shared passion for innovation. Edison's guidance helped Ford navigate the challenges of founding the Ford Motor Company and revolutionizing the automotive industry with the introduction of the Model T, which made automobiles affordable for the average American.

This mentor-mentee dynamic illustrates how a mentor can significantly influence an individual's career trajectory and the broader societal impact of their work. Edison's mentorship of Ford not only contributed to Ford's personal success but also played a role in the industrialization of the 20th century, fundamentally transforming American society and economy. Their relationship highlights the transformative potential of mentorship in fostering innovation, encouraging risk-taking, and shaping the future. Through their collaboration, Edison and Ford demonstrated how mentorship can bridge generations of thinkers and doers, creating legacies that outlive their own achievements and continue to inspire future generations.

Moreover, mentors provide a safe space for growth, offering support and constructive criticism that fosters personal and professional development. They serve as role models, exemplifying the virtues of perseverance, integrity, and humility. Through their guidance, mentees learn to navigate the complexities of their careers and personal lives with wisdom and ethical consideration. The mentor's role is thus indispensable in cultivating leaders and innovators who are not only accomplished in their fields but also grounded in their values.

The ripple effect of mentorship can also extend into broader societal impacts. Mentors in various sectors—be it academia, industry, or community organizations—play a crucial role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. They instill a culture of learning and passing on knowledge, ensuring that their mentees, in turn, become mentors to others. This cycle of mentorship creates a legacy of empowerment, innovation, and leadership that transcends individual achievements, contributing to the development of more collaborative and compassionate communities.

The significance of mentorship cannot be overstated. It is a timeless tradition that enriches lives, shapes destinies, and influences the course of history. The stories of mentor-mentee relationships, both ancient and modern, underscore the transformative power of mentorship. They remind us that behind every great leader, innovator, or thinker, there often stands a mentor who has played a pivotal role in their journey. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of our times, the role of mentors in fostering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and doers remains as vital as ever. 

To all the mentors who have helped all of us along our journeys, thank you. Most of us did not make it to where we are by ourselves. Besides getting involved as a mentor and/or mentee, consider reaching back out to someone who has made a huge impact on your career and thank them.