Celebrating National Mentoring Month

National Mentoring Month

The Transformative Benefits of Mentoring for Mentors

As we step into National Mentoring Month this January, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the profound impact that mentoring has on both mentees and mentors. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we often hear heartwarming stories about how mentors change the lives of their mentees. But today, I want to shine a light on the lesser-told story: how mentoring transforms the mentors themselves.

When you decide to become a mentor, you might expect to make a difference in someone else’s life. What’s often surprising is just how much the experience enriches your own.

A Renewed Sense of Purpose

Mentoring offers a chance to step outside of your daily routine and connect with something bigger than yourself. Many of our mentors share that spending time with their mentees has reignited their sense of purpose. Whether it’s helping a young person navigate school challenges or supporting their aspirations, mentors often find that giving their time and energy to others brings a deep sense of fulfillment.

Personal Growth and Development

Being a mentor challenges you to grow as a person. It encourages patience, empathy, and the ability to see the world from another’s perspective. These skills aren’t just beneficial in mentoring—they’re life skills that can improve relationships, careers, and personal well-being.

Take Alex, for example, a mentor to Sheldon, who was a high school freshman when he was matched with Alex. Alex came into the program hoping to provide guidance, but he quickly realized that mentoring Sheldon taught him valuable lessons in listening and adaptability. “It’s not just about giving advice,” Alex shared. “It’s about truly hearing someone and meeting them where they are.”

Alex and Sheldon at Disneyland, 2014
Alex & Sheldon, 2014

Alex and Sheldon 2024
Alex & Sheldon, 2024

Building Lasting Connections

Mentoring often results in enduring, meaningful relationships. The bond formed between a mentor and a mentee is unique, built on trust, respect, and shared experiences. These connections can last a lifetime, enriching both parties beyond the formal mentoring relationship.

For Carly, a mentor to Averionna, the experience deepened her understanding of resilience and kindness. “Averionna’s strength inspires me every day,” Carly said. “Our relationship has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my life.”

2024 Match of the Year Carly & Averionna

Carly & Averionna – 2024 Match of the Year

Rediscovering Joy and Curiosity

One unexpected benefit of mentoring is the chance to see the world through a younger person’s eyes. This fresh perspective can reignite your own curiosity and sense of wonder. Whether it’s discussing new music, learning about a budding hobby, or simply laughing at a shared joke, mentors often rediscover the joy of life’s simple pleasures through their mentees.

Be a Big: Change Two Lives

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our network of mentors. By becoming a Big, you’re not only helping a young person achieve their potential, but you’re also embarking on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

As we celebrate National Mentoring Month, I encourage you to think about the mentors who have shaped your life. What would it mean to pay it forward? What could you learn from stepping into the role of a mentor?

The truth is, mentoring changes lives—and not just for the mentees. It’s a two-way street of learning, growing, and connecting. This National Mentoring Month, let’s honor those who mentor and invite others to experience the transformative power of mentoring.

Are you ready to make a difference? Learn more about becoming a mentor at inspireBIG.org/become-a-big.

Together, we can create a community where everyone feels supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive.

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