On Mentoring: Take Time to Give Thanks
I have had trainees and colleagues alike question why they need a mentor. My answer is simple: because sometimes we need someone to help us see ourselves in a different light; someone who can be both nurturing and truthful at the same time; someone who will listen to our dreams and aspirations and will encourage us to achieve our best; and someone who will offer guidance but who will let us make our own decisions and help us learn from our own mistakes.
I have been very fortunate to have had several mentors in my life, and not all were physicians or even in health care. Mentors have helped me develop into who I am today, and I’m eternally grateful for their guidance and support. I have learned a great deal from these individuals, and these gifts I try to give to others who, like me, need a mentor.
I would encourage each of us to reflect back on people who have been important in our lives and contact that person through a note, email, text, or phone call to thank them for their mentorship. It’s a great way to give back.
