There are several ways to begin a mentoring relationship. It can be as simple as working on a project together where everyone has a chance to learn, like planting a neighborhood garden or setting up a new computer system. It can be a formal scheme through an organization like the Girl Scouts or it can be an informal friendship through a religious organization or neighborhood.
Meet and greet
You can offer to meet regularly, or you can simply seek out the company of people you would like to know better (with those under 18, it’s important to make sure that their parents are involved too, for a healthy dynamic).
Ask questions
You can also ask the people in your life what they are passionate about and offer to help them achieve their goals:
- Do they want to start a business?
- Raise healthy kids?
- Excel in school?
Offer to support them through the process. Become their biggest cheerleader and advocate — as much as they are comfortable with. Be willing to back off or let go if they need some space.
Keep at it
Of course, many people today don’t have a lot of time for new relationships, so not everyone may be interested at first. But don’t give up. Plenty of people are looking for support, especially as more people move away from home and lose their traditional support systems.
Sometimes, the best way to get to know someone is to start with small traditional gestures of hospitality, like making dinner or inviting the neighbors over to watch or play sports. Events like these can help forge a positive connection, paving the way for both “Wise,” “Side,” and “Surprise” -guide mentoring.
Got other ideas or stories about mentoring? Let us know! Check out our blog for more insights on how WiseTribers are adding meaning to their lives and to others by mentoring. Join us to contribute your ideas!
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Elizabeth Kays is a storyteller with a background in science and a deep love for all things intercultural and intergenerational. She graduated with a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Oxford, deepening her appreciation for science and culture. Elizabeth has more than 10 years of experience helping Millennials discover their talents. She’s more than a little bit nerdy and loves cooking, writing, speaking and watching cheesy sci-fi. Follow her on Twitter (@LizKays) and on Tumblr.
