Mentors, Part 3

I’ve rarely sat down with a mentor and asked them how I should do something. I just don’t think that’s the point of a mentoring relationship. That’s what a manual is for and I don’t think there really is a manual for how to do ministry. There are models, but not manuals.

If a person is qualified to be your mentor, they have a story that is worth learning from. So here’s some thoughts about getting the most out of your mentoring relationships.

1. Be prepared. Have a handful of questions ready, or better yet, email them out a few days ahead. Don’t waste your mentor’s time.
2. Learn their story. Go on their journey. You know they’re in their role for a reason. Invest yourself in learning the story of how they got there.
3. Ask hard questions. If you want life-altering answers, you should ask mind-boggling, heart-moving questions.
4. Be vulnerable. If this isn’t a two way street, someone is going to get bored and get off the bus.
5. Be thankful. Time is a commodity that leaders have little of. Always let your mentor know that you don’t take their time for granted.