Mentors are rare gems in the journey of life. They come into our lives like guiding stars, helping us navigate through the darkness of uncertainty and doubt. However, this journey isn’t always smooth. Often, I’ve observed that disciples, when faced with tough questions or challenges posed by their mentors, become uncomfortable. This discomfort, though natural, is where true growth begins.
Who is a Mentor?
A mentor is more than just a teacher or a boss. A mentor is someone who leads and guides you in your life, helping you develop a particular skill or trade, or even guiding you through your personal evolution. They could be found in various forms—your teacher, your reporting manager, a colleague, or even a friend. Some people even have mentors they’ve never met or who lived in different times, such as historical figures like Steve Jobs, Subhash Chandra Bose, or Lord Krishna.
The Role of a Mentor: Tough Love and Accountability
I’ve seen many people feel disheartened or even resentful when their mentors hold them accountable or scold them for their mistakes. This is a common misunderstanding of the mentor’s role. A mentor’s purpose is not just to applaud your successes but also to point out your flaws, to push you out of your comfort zone, and to guide you towards the best version of yourself. They do this not out of malice, but out of a deep commitment to your growth and success.
Personally, I consider myself fortunate to have had great mentors at every stage of my career. Their guidance has been instrumental in my growth, both professionally and personally. At the same time, I’ve had the honor of being considered a mentor by some of my colleagues, which has been a humbling experience. Being a mentor is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly.
The Perfect Example: Krishna as a Mentor to the Pandavas
When thinking about the ideal mentor, there is no better example than Lord Krishna and his relationship with the Pandavas in the Mahabharata. Krishna’s mentorship was multifaceted—he was a spiritual guide, a strategic advisor, and an emotional pillar for the Pandavas.
Spiritual Guide: The Bhagavad Gita stands as a testament to Krishna’s role as a spiritual guide. When Arjuna was paralyzed by doubt and moral confusion on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Krishna imparted profound wisdom that helped him understand his duty and the nature of righteousness. Krishna didn’t just tell Arjuna what to do; he helped him see the bigger picture, to understand his role in the grand scheme of things, which is the hallmark of a true mentor.
Strategic Advisor: Throughout the Mahabharata, Krishna’s strategic advice was crucial. He guided the Pandavas not just in matters of war but in understanding the dynamics of power, politics, and human behavior. His advice was always aimed at ensuring the triumph of dharma (righteousness), even when the path was fraught with difficulties.
Moral Support: Krishna’s unwavering support was a source of immense strength for the Pandavas. He was there for them during their most challenging times, offering solace, wisdom, and the courage to keep going. His intervention during Draupadi’s disrobing, where he miraculously protected her honor, exemplifies his role as a mentor who stands by his disciples in their darkest hours.
The Mentor’s Challenge: Leading with Purpose
Sometimes, having a mentor like Krishna can be challenging. The Pandavas faced many trials, and Krishna’s guidance wasn’t always easy to follow. It required faith, patience, and the willingness to accept that the mentor’s path, though difficult, was the right one. A good mentor pushes you, questions you, and at times, may seem harsh, but it is all in service of helping you reach your highest potential.
Mentors are supposed to be guides, not critics. Understanding this can transform the way we perceive mentorship. When faced with tough questions or challenges from a mentor, instead of resisting, embrace the opportunity to grow. A mentor’s role is to help you navigate through life’s complexities with wisdom and insight.
In my own life, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who guided me with patience, wisdom, and sometimes tough love. Their influence has been profound, shaping the person I am today. As I continue on my journey, I aim to embody these same qualities when I find myself in the role of a mentor, understanding that the true purpose of mentorship is to help others achieve their full potential, just as Krishna did for the Pandavas.
Superb. I can relate to this as I have been lucky to have tough yet loving mentors. At the same time, I got opportunity to mentor a few.