Mentoring -- the Gift that Keeps on Giving
Every month, I reread the mission statement of ABWA and ask myself, "What else can I be doing to help the women in this organization grow personally and professionally?" I think that this question is useful as we approach our annual mentor meeting this month. Ask yourself, "Who in my life has helped me grow personally and professionally?" and if you've never had a chance to acknowledge them for the contribution they made to your life, now is your opportunity. They could be a former teacher, or employer, co-worker, spouse, friend, sibling, or parent.

When I graduated from UC Davis in 1995, I briefly went into the environmental consulting field. My mentor was the vice president of the company, and he gave me positive feedback and encouragement that I will never forget. I have no idea what happened to him, but from his encouragement I started my own company that designed databases, and now I run my own wellness company. Without his mentoring, I would still be an employee rather than a business owner, and my life would look very different. If you can, take the time to acknowledge the people who have really made a difference in your life, and pay it forward to the next generation. Never underestimate the power that you have to touch another life.

See you soon!