A self-made leader doesn’t make much. I first wrote that statement in my book, Leadership Gold (Thomas Nelson, 2008). Eight years later, I still believe it. After all, I’m not a self-made man; it took a lot of people investing in me to get me where I am today.

You may wonder who helped me. Well, I’ll tell you: mentors.

A mentor is someone who teaches, guides, and lifts you up by virtue of her experience and insight. It’s usually someone a little farther ahead of you on the path—although that doesn’t always mean that the person is older. A mentor is someone with a head full of experience and a heart full of generosity, who brings those things together in your life.

I’ve had help all along my journey and been blessed with some amazing mentors who have poured wisdom and insight into my life at crucial times.

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