By JOY NELSON THOMAS 

We rise by lifting one another up.
Sit with that statement for a moment. Reflect, and answer these two questions before you move forward:

Who’s lifted you up?
1.
2.

Who have you lifted up – and how?
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “I don’t know…” Let me help you reframe it. Lifting someone up isn’t always a big, dramatic act. Sometimes it’s sending an encouraging text. It’s offering help to a colleague who’s drowning in work. It’s saying, “Hey, I see you. You’re doing great.” It’s listening – really listening – when someone needs to be heard.

So, think again:
Who have you lifted up?
1.
2.

Now, let’s talk about lifting up through mentorship. I know the word can sound a little formal. You might picture a seasoned executive offering advice over coffee. And sure, sometimes that’s exactly what it looks like. But, more often, mentorship is simply one person reaching back and saying, “Hey, I’ve been where you are. Let me walk with you a bit.”

So, let’s talk about it. Let’s talk about how to find a mentor – and maybe even more importantly, how to become one.

Why I Believe Mentorship Matters

We all need people. No one gets where they are alone. Whether you’re just starting out or stepping into new territory, the right guidance can make all the difference.

How to Find a Mentor (Without Making It Awkward)

Let’s be honest – it can feel weird to walk up to someone and say, “Will you be my mentor?” That’s actually what I did – but that’s not always how it works.

Start here:

• Look around, not just up. Mentors don’t have to be decades ahead of you. Sometimes, peer mentors or people just a step ahead can offer the most relevant insights.
• Be curious. Reach out with thoughtful questions. Ask about their journey. Most people are honored to share what they’ve learned – especially when they see genuine interest.
• Build the relationship first. Let mentorship evolve naturally. Often, the best mentors don’t begin with a title – they begin with trust.

And, if you’re thinking, “I’m not ready to be mentored,” let me gently challenge that. Stop it! Just ask.

I remember going to one of my now-mentors and saying, “Will you be my mentor? Please pray about it and let me know.” She didn’t say “yes” right away, but years later, she’s one of my favorite thought partners.

Remember: You don’t need a polished plan. You just need a willingness to grow – and the courage to ask for help.

It’s okay to ask for help. I promise – it’s not a sign of weakness.

How to Be a Mentor (Even If You Don’t Think You’re “Qualified”)

Here’s the secret: You don’t need to have it all figured out to help someone else.

If you’ve learned a lesson the hard way – share it. 

If you’ve navigated something tricky – offer your story.
If you have access to a room someone else is trying to get into – invite them in.

Here are some tips:

• Listen more than you speak. Mentorship isn’t about preaching – it’s about understanding.
• Be honest about your journey. Vulnerability is powerful. It tells your mentee, “You don’t have to be perfect to progress.”
• Open doors. Introduce them to people. Recommend resources. Advocate for them when they’re not in the room. That’s where real lifting happens.

You don’t need a title to lead. Sometimes the best mentors are simply the ones who remember what it felt like to start from scratch – and choose to reach back anyway.

Here’s what I know:
They grow. You grow.
And together, we build something bigger than any one person could ever build alone. We rise – truly rise – when we choose connection over competition. When we create a culture where sharing wisdom, cheering each other on and pulling others up isn’t the exception, but the expectation. So, maybe the question isn’t: “Am I ready to be a mentor or find one?” Maybe the better question is:

Who can I walk with next?