We all agree we are living in challenging times that require us to make some severe changes and decisions as we navigate life through the global pandemic. 

A few years ago, faced with some tough decisions, I approached one of my professional contacts, and he asked me a question that has stayed with me all these years. 

“Who do you take regular counsel from?”
This question shaped my thinking and enabled me to surround myself with the supportive network that I now have. 

It was apparent that I had no trusted advisers and that, my network, although broad, was not structured to support me in the areas that I needed help in. 

At the time, I was working mostly on my own and asking family and friends for business and professional advice. 

My family and friends are great and always have the best intentions but not always the right professional or industry experience to offer deep insight into specific professional challenges. 

After pondering on the question, I realised he was right, and I needed help! FAST.

I needed mentors who would provide great counsel that will set me up for success. I decided to surround myself with people who were: 

1. Experienced and thriving in the areas they are mentoring me in. 
2. Have a track record of success by overcoming multiple obstacles and crisis to get where they are. 
3. Life long learners. People who are continually growing and learning also tend to be the best teachers as they can pass on their lessons. 
4. People who can sponsor me in the right circles. 
5. People whose personal brand and reputation is more significant than their work and expertise. 
6. People who are emotionally matured enough to help me stay grounded when times are tough.
7. Great authentic female leaders who can motivate and inspire me. 

These are just a few of the qualities I look for in a mentor. 

If you find yourself on your own in these challenging times, then, I encourage you to invest some time in connecting with and finding great mentors. 

We are here to help you do just that. 

@forwardladies you can sign up as a mentor or mentee and find yourself a great counsellor or two in these times. 

I honestly don’t know where I would be without my mentors.