How can you stay motivated and focused when working with a mentor?

1 Set clear expectations

Before you start working with a mentor, it is important to establish clear expectations and boundaries for both parties. What are your objectives, needs, and preferences for the mentoring process? How often and how will you communicate and meet with your mentor? What kind of support and guidance are you looking for and what can your mentor offer? By having a mutual understanding of the scope and purpose of the mentoring relationship, you can avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and disappointments later on.

2 Seek feedback and act on it

One of the main benefits of working with a mentor is getting honest and constructive feedback on your executive management skills, performance, and potential. However, feedback is only useful if you are willing to listen, learn, and act on it. Don't take feedback personally or defensively, but rather as an opportunity to improve and grow. Ask your mentor for specific and actionable suggestions on how you can address your strengths and weaknesses, and follow up on them with concrete steps and evidence. Show your mentor that you value and appreciate their input and that you are committed to your development.

3 Challenge yourself and your mentor

Working with a mentor is not a passive or one-way process. It is a dynamic and interactive learning experience that requires both parties to be engaged, curious, and open-minded. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself and your mentor with new ideas, perspectives, and questions. Explore different aspects of executive management, such as strategy, leadership, innovation, ethics, and culture. Seek out new opportunities, projects, and networks that can enhance your skills and exposure. Share your insights, opinions, and feedback with your mentor as well. By challenging yourself and your mentor, you can stimulate your creativity, motivation, and growth.

4 Celebrate your achievements and progress

Working with a mentor can also be a source of recognition, encouragement, and celebration. Don't forget to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements and progress along the way, both big and small. Recognize how far you have come, how much you have learned, and how much you have contributed. Celebrate your successes and milestones with your mentor, and thank them for their support and guidance. Celebrating your achievements and progress can boost your confidence, morale, and satisfaction.

5 Review and reflect regularly

Finally, working with a mentor requires regular review and reflection to ensure that you are getting the most out of the relationship and that you are staying aligned with your goals and values. Review and reflect on your mentoring sessions, feedback, actions, and outcomes. Assess what is working well and what needs improvement. Identify any gaps, challenges, or opportunities that you need to address or pursue. Evaluate how the mentoring relationship is meeting your expectations and needs, and how it is affecting your executive management skills and career. Review and reflect regularly with your mentor, and adjust your mentoring plan and strategy accordingly.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?