A Mentoring Mind

Some people are just natural mentors, while others need to learn the skills to become a good mentor. What is it that makes a person a natural mentor? I put it down to having a mentoring mind….

In my view, a mentoring mind consists of the following:

1. Enquiring mind: If you have an enquiring (or inquiring) mind you have a great interest in learning new things and asking questions. They are genuinely interested in others, there is no faking it. They are infinitely curious and want to learn more about the other person, as well as what they can learn for themselves. They ask questions because they want to find out more, rather than for their own ego.

2. Generous mind: The Latin root for generous is “generosus” which means magnanimous and Google defines generosity as “the quality of being kind and generous”. A person with a generous mind is kind and wants to help others. Giving back is important to them and gives them joy. They want to share their learning and wisdom with others, not for their own ego, but because they want to see other people achieve their goals. They give of their time and knowledge generously, without expecting anything in return. However, they do actually receive something in return, as research in Neuroscience has found that being generous brings one greater happiness.

3. Focused mind: Having a focused mind is the power to focus your attention on one thought, object or activity. A person with a focused mind is fully present, able to focus on the other person and listen deeply with their whole being. They give the other person their full attention. They suspend their own judgment, don’t interrupt, listening to the content, context and meaning of what is being said or not been said. They are therefore able to ask thoughtful questions and build trust with the other person.

4. Compassionate mind: They have a highly developed EQ (Emotional Quotient). They not only show empathy (I feel what you feel), but they show compassion (how can I support you?). They genuinely can step into the shoes of the other person and understand their perspective. They truly believe in the other person and want the best for them. To show compassion towards oneself and others can lead to an increased sense of happiness and well-being.

5. Open mind: To be open-minded is being willing to consider new ideas, opinions and suggestions as well as to be unprejudiced. They are non-judgmental. They know they don’t know everything and that they can learn from the other person too. In giving they also receive, but do not expect it. Any learning is a bonus!

What can you do to develop a mentoring mind?And then, what will you do with it?

Article by: Catherine Hodgson

www.shiftmentoring.com