Strive to be a Mentor

Mentor

The word “mentor” comes from Greek mythology. Mentor was the name of the wise and trusted counselor of Odysseus. When Odysseus went on his long journey, he put Mentor in charge of his son, Telemachus, as his teacher and the guardian of his soul.

Mentor - A Definition

Someone who has expertise in a particular area and shares that learning with the mentee. Mentors provide knowledge; they advise, guide, correct and encourage in their field of expertise. A mentor works within their profession - often with a player who has been named Captain of the team.

The Mentor

The Mentor is the Coach of all of the players on the team but he forms  a special relationship with the players who show signs of leadership, e.g. the captain of the offensive line on his football team. This is usually called the Mentor/Mentee relationship. We will use the name “Player” and use “male” and “female” pronouns interchangeably.

Essential Beliefs

These are the beliefs that you - the Mentor - must hold as you deal with your Player. 

You and your Player are Equals

If you see yourself as superior to your Player because you are older than he is, smarter than he is, more learned than he is, or by any other measure; go find something else to do with your time. You simply are two worthy people who have come together to share a living, learning experience.

Be a Positive Factor for your Player  

Never forget that she is a unique person. Protect her from physical and psychological abuse (including your own). Constantly let her know that you care about her regardless of the results of her performance. Learn her abilities to do the required skills, her readiness to do them, and her emotional and psychological status in dealing with the learning activities.

Be a Model for your Player 

Actively listen to him as you and he communicate. Be there – body, mind, and soul. Share your thoughts, knowledge and feelings. If you really listen to him, you will learn more about him and about yourself.

Be a Co-learner with your Player.

This is a great opportunity for you to learn something that you don’t already know. Every person that I have taught has taught me more than I have taught her. Maria taught me about her culture – I learned about the history of basketball with Janet - Susan helped me expand my knowledge of horses . . . .     

Accept and Encourage Risking

You have to risk looking dumb in order to get smarter. Admit that you don’t know who produced the first laceless basketball and tell him that you and he will look it up. Let him take risks and don’t give him negative looks and comments – he is in a safe place - we do know that people learn best when they feel safe in their learning environment.

Bonding – A Person to Person Relationship

The quality of the relationship shared by you and your Player is the most important aspect of your mentoring venture. Mentorship is an invaluable experience that can have lasting impacts on both parties involved.

Acknowledge and Foster the Creative Side

Creativity cannot be measured by any type of “achievement” test. Use methods that include creativity. This enhances the right hemisphere of the brain, is very often just plain fun, and gives her the permission and the opportunity to think. Most of all, listen to her and use her ideas when applicable.

Learning is an Active Process

Both of you must be Active. Making a mistake is a signal from him to you - telling you how you can help him. Just be human - be positive – enjoy your Player as he learns – enjoy yourself and enjoy being a learner.

Mutual Respect is Present

This concept does not need any discussion or explanation - It simply is.