The Power of Mentors: How to Find One (Even If You’re Young and Uncertain)
- Lindi van Heerden
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
When people hear the word mentor, they often imagine a formal relationship, an experienced person taking you under their wing, meeting regularly, guiding you step by step for years. Yet mentorship is not always that structured, and it does not need to be.
Mentors can show up in many forms. Sometimes it is a teacher or boss. Sometimes it is a family member, a friend, or even someone you meet once or twice but who leaves a lasting impression. What matters is that you keep your eyes open, stay curious, and look for people you can learn from at every stage of your journey.
Mentors Come in All Shapes and Sizes
When I was still in school, I remember watching an interview on television with someone who held the job I dreamed of pursuing one day. I was so inspired that I went online, found their email address, and reached out.
I simply said thank you for the interview, explained how much it meant to me, and asked if they would be open to sharing any advice. To my surprise, they replied and offered insights that were so valuable, I still carry them with me to this day. We even met for coffee, which was such a special experience.
That person was never officially called my mentor, yet they shaped part of my path. That brief connection gave me encouragement and clarity, showing me that sometimes, all it takes is a little courage to reach out.
Later, when I moved to Dubai, I came across a woman who had built a thriving business doing work I admired. Again, I found her contact details, sent her a message, and asked if she would meet for coffee. She kindly agreed, and I eagerly soaked up every bit of wisdom she shared. Even though we only met once, that conversation stayed with me, reminding me what was possible.
How to Spot Mentorship in Everyday Life
We need to break the idea that mentorship has to be formal or long term. Some mentors stay in your life for years, guiding you through ups and downs. Others appear just once, offering a key insight or a piece of advice that shifts your thinking.
A mentor might be your boss, a lecturer, a family member, or someone you admire from afar. If you are someone who envisions a big, exciting future for yourself, make it your mission to stay open to mentorship in all its forms. Watch for people who inspire you, who challenge you, and who are willing to share their experience, even if just for a moment.
How to Be a Good Mentee
Being a good mentee is about more than just receiving advice. It is about showing up, taking initiative, and demonstrating that you are eager to learn. I once heard a brilliant tip: be the person who finishes what you are supposed to do, and then goes to your mentor, boss, or teacher and says, “I have completed everything. Is there anything else you would like me to help with?”
This simple act builds trust. Sometimes they will say yes, sometimes they will say no, but either way, you are showing that you want more for yourself. You are proving that you are ready to go beyond the minimum and actively seek growth.
What Holds People Back and Why You Should Not Let It
Many young people hesitate to approach mentors because they think, “I am not successful enough yet,” or, “I have nothing to offer in return.” But here is the truth: people who have walked the road ahead often want to share what they have learned. They remember what it was like to be in your shoes, and many of them are happy to help.
Do not let fear or self-doubt stop you from reaching out. Even a short conversation, a few exchanged emails, or a quick coffee chat can open doors and plant seeds that shape your future.
Final Thoughts
Mentorship does not have to be formal, and it does not have to last forever. What matters is that you stay open, stay curious, and surround yourself with people who are doing the things you want to do. Learn from them. Listen to their stories. Ask your questions.
And most importantly, remember that no one succeeds completely on their own. The people you admire are learning from mentors too, just further along their journey.
Be brave. Reach out. You never know where that one conversation might lead.
Take care,
Lindi
PS: If you want to explore how mentorship can accelerate your growth or need guidance on your next steps, book a free 15-minute session with me. Let’s talk about where you want to go and how to get there.
About Lindi van Heerden
Lindi van Heerden is a coach, mentor, and speaker passionate about helping young individuals navigate life’s big questions with courage and confidence. Through her Young and Purposeful – The Clarity Blueprint programme, she empowers young adults to break through self-doubt, take bold action, and create a life they love, even before they have it all figured out.
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