Some of the wisest and most effective mentors I have had,
simply made themselves available. These people—true mentors—will help you
discover and define yourself.

[Note: Information on a free music download toward the end of this post. Enjoy!]

Mentors have had a huge impact on my life. In teaching, publishing, and workshop facilitation, I have been fortunate to learn from masters.  I am always suggesting students find a mentor. The power of such a relationship cannot be overstated.  These people—true mentors—will help you discover and define yourself.

Image: dan/
FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Having said that, please beware of false prophets—the self-appointed life coaches who believe their job is to correct your course.  However well-meaning, they could end up getting in your way. Just like that little person sitting on your shoulder who constantly tells you to play it safe, not do this, and avoid that. They believe they know what is best for you, and they seldom miss an opportunity to bloviate and pontificate.  You know the ones.

Ben Franklin reminded us that “Wise men don’t need advice. Fools won’t take it.”

Some of the wisest and most effective mentors I have had, simply made themselves available. They did not come to me with a list of things I needed to change. They never attempted to mold me into a mini-them. Even when my actions were not how they would approach a situation, they helped me define my journey. Very seldom have I heard my mentors say, “Steve you should do it this way.”

In other words, they recognized my ability—and need—to make my choices, examine my mistakes, and celebrate my triumphs.  They truly were guides whispering in my ear, not someone yelling into a bullhorn telling me I did not measure up to their view of the world.

In short, they did not should on me.

Free Music Download

The you-should-do-this-people of the world inspired my song, I’m Gonna Should On You!  As a gift to you, you can have a free download of the song by going to http://stevepiscitelli.com/Downloads/music-downloads.html. When prompted, type in the password should. This offer will be available until September 1, 2013.   Turn up the speakers and enjoy the song.

Video recommendation for the week:

I will leave you today with a short message from Stedman Graham. I asked him to deliver a message to my classroom scholars. The message is simple—know who you are. Define yourself.

(YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufKqiAv5D1E)

Choose well. Live well. Be well—and H.T.R.B. as needed!

On Friday, September 13, I will offer my next webinar. The topic: Supporting Our Adjunct Faculty: The Forgotten Teachers of Academia.   Take advantage of this complementary offering.  Click here to register now for the webinar.  Or go to my website for registration information. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog post. Please share it (and any of the archived posts on this site) with friends and colleagues. You also can follow me on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. If you get a chance, visit my Facebook page and join in–or start–a conversation (www.facebook.com/stevepiscitelli).  If you have suggestions for future posts, leave a comment. Make it a wonderful week!

 ©2013. Steve Piscitelli