You are closer to achieving your dreams than you think.
Sometimes, the only thing standing between you and your goals is clarity—and clarity often comes from the most unexpected places.
It’s not in the next self-help book you read or the next motivational podcast you binge. It comes from people—specifically, mentors who’ve already walked the path you’re trying to travel.
Let’s explore how mentorship can be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
Mentorship: Your Shortcut to Success
Mentorship isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a time-tested strategy for success. As the saying goes, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” A great mentor provides more than just advice; they embody the possibility of your dreams becoming reality. They’ve been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale.
Take my own experience, for example.
I recently had dinner with a man who, like me, has built a career in public speaking. But here’s the kicker: he speaks only three times a month and earns over $1 million annually. Let that sink in.
It wasn’t just his numbers that impressed me—it was the fact that he wasn’t some untouchable celebrity. He was relatable. A neighbor. Just a guy. Someone whose journey felt within reach.
That conversation lit a fire in me that no book ever could. Why? Because he showed me it was possible. Suddenly, my goals didn’t feel like lofty dreams; they felt tangible, even inevitable.
Why Mentors Work Better Than Books
There’s nothing wrong with books, conferences, or coaching sessions. They’re great tools, but they can’t replace the impact of a mentor who makes your goals feel real. When you meet someone who’s already achieved what you aspire to, their success is no longer an abstract idea—it’s proof.
Think about it: you can read 100 books on entrepreneurship, but sitting down with someone who has built a successful business brings a level of clarity and confidence you can’t get from theory alone.
You see the possibilities through their eyes.
You hear the nuances of their journey.
You feel the energy of someone who’s made it.
As one of my friends, Justin, put it: “It’s not even about the steps they give you—it’s about knowing that someone like you has already done it.”
The Power of Relatability
Here’s the fascinating part: the more relatable the mentor, the more inspiring they are. Sure, it would be incredible to sit down with Simon Sinek or Oprah Winfrey. But let’s be honest—our brains tend to put high-profile figures on pedestals. We think, Of course, they succeeded. They’re famous.
But when you meet someone who doesn’t have a household name, someone who’s just as human as you, their success feels attainable. It’s the “millionaire next door” effect. These mentors make you think, If they can do it, so can I.
This relatability doesn’t just apply to mentors. It’s something I’ve experienced firsthand as a speaker.
At one conference, I opened the event while a well-known keynote speaker closed it. Despite his fame, I connected with the audience in a way he didn’t—and the feedback scores proved it. Why? Because I wasn’t on a pedestal. I was approachable, relatable, and real. Sometimes, that’s the secret sauce.
How to Find Your Mentor
So, how do you find someone like this? Here are three practical steps:
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Be Clear About What You Want
Start by identifying your goals. Whether it’s becoming a highly paid speaker, building a business, or achieving personal growth, clarity is key. When you know what you want, it’s easier to recognize someone who can guide you there. -
Put Yourself Out There
Share your goals with enthusiasm. You never know who’s listening. At that dinner, I wasn’t looking for a mentor—I was just sharing my passion. The right people are drawn to your energy when you’re genuinely excited about your journey. -
Give Before You Take
Approach mentorship as a two-way street. Offer something of value, even if it’s just your curiosity or willingness to learn. During my conversation, I offered to share insights about AI, which sparked a deeper connection. Mentorship moments happen when there’s mutual respect and exchange. -
Never Ask "Can I pick your brain?"
No one wants their brain picked. For me, this conjures up an image of vultures. It is unsettling and makes the other person feel uncomfortable, even if only on a subconscious level.
Mentorship Moments Are Everywhere
Not every mentor relationship needs to be formal. Some of the most powerful mentorship moments happen in casual conversations—a dinner, a coffee meeting, or even a quick chat after an event. Be open to these moments. They might not always look like mentorship, but they can have a lasting impact.
Remember, the best mentors don’t just give you advice; they show you what’s possible. They make your goals feel real. They take you from preached it to reached it.
The Superpower of Being Relatable
Finally, if you’re ever on the other side of the equation, don’t underestimate the power of being relatable. You don’t need to be famous to inspire someone. As Sarah Blakely, the billionaire founder of Spanx, has shown, staying authentic and approachable can be your greatest asset.
In a world full of public figures on pedestals, being the “normal guy or girl next door” can be your superpower.
So, what’s your next step? Find that mentor. Share your dreams. And remember—you’re closer to achieving your big goals than you think.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Who has been a mentor to you, and how did they impact your journey? Let’s keep the conversation going.
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