Where would we be without our guides?
especially on a trek that demands tremendous vulnerability
Apparently, I’m a goal-oriented person, as I can’t remember when I didn’t have at least one goal in mind and, in most cases, a handful more lining my pockets. All my endeavors have had one thing in common, a mentor, teacher, or loved one lifting me in the general direction of success.
Where would I have found myself without my mentors?
For years, my dream was to publish a book. In October of 2021, after nearly a decade of manifesting, I published Lessons of a Wayward Yogini. By July 2022, I had a new goal, writing on Substack. Over the last year and a half, the dream has shifted from not only having a publication on Substack with subscribers, it has taken on a new shape, a small gold circle outlined in green with the inscription Substack Featured Publication.
I’ll be honest; it takes courage to state my truth. Vulnerability lurks in the shadows, waiting to pounce on my every last weakness. I nod in her direction with a dismissive gesture. She disappears, sliding off the right side of my screen.
That’s better.
It’s okay to strive for a dream. In fact, it’s fabulous to dream, especially at 68. And if you never make the mountaintop, that’s also okay if you enjoy the moments along the way just as much. Undeniably, I am enjoying myself in this latest endeavor.
I dreamed of climbing the Himalayas when I was braver younger. While I never achieved that goal, metaphorically speaking, I’ve since climbed many mountains. And I learned a thing or two about sherpas along the way, and my strength.
Sherpa definition: a member of the Himalayan people living on the borders of Nepal and Tibet, renowned for their skill in mountaineering.
Mountaineering definition: the sport or activity of climbing mountains.
While most sherpas are excellent guides, a few have been known to desert their clients along the trek, leaving them to make their way in extreme elements without proper skills for the journey… not a pretty picture.
Why is she talking about sherpas? Is there a point here?
Yes, assuredly, there is.
On my latest trek writing on Substack, I’ve relied on a few guides that have made the journey achievable. Whether I’m ever bestowed the title of “Substack Featured Publication” will depend on my efforts. But the hike would have ended long ago without my mentors, so this post honors them and reminds us of a common truth.
We are not islands.
We need our teachers.
We need to be able to ask for help.
As Natasha Koifman, a Forbes Councils member reminds us,
Establishing a mentorship relationship can provide mentees with immense advantages, such as new knowledge, expanded networks and the ability to advance their career. Having a mentor is more than just setting and achieving goals; it's about having someone in your corner who can provide valuable feedback, encouragement and support to help you grow both professionally and personally.
Next week I will continue this topic, writing more about vulnerability and the importance of goals.
Thank you,
, for planting the directional arrow along my path and continuing to serve as my mentor. Substack will benefit when you make your way to write here.Thank you,
, for your generosity in helping others. You have been such a Godsend propelling me forward.And my newest instructor,
, I’m grateful that you have made it one of your goals to assist the masses in navigating Substack’s platform. Without guidance, it can feel as if our sherpa has left us alone on the trail.Oh my goodness, which way is up?
I agree with everything you said. We would be no where without mentors and helpers both physically and spiritually. I love the saying “When the student is ready the teacher appears”. So proud of you my dear friend.
This is fabulous, Sue! You get a gold circle in my book!