The Law of Modeling: Finding the Right Mentors for Growth

As March nears its end, it’s the perfect time to reflect—are you getting closer to your goals? This month, we’re diving into the 13th law from The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth: The Law of Modeling. Simply put, this law teaches us to seek out and learn from role models—individuals or groups who can positively influence our journey. While we can’t replicate their exact paths, we can absorb valuable lessons and guidance.

Every successful person has had mentors who played a part in shaping their journey. But how do we choose the right role models? Here are six key criteria to consider:

1. Worthy Example

A great role model exhibits professional excellence and strong personal values. They don’t just talk (they prove it by living with integrity, ensuring that their personal and professional lives align). After all, we’re not looking for a movie cast; we need real, transparent individuals who inspire real growth.

2. Availability

Learning from someone requires access. A mentor should be within reach so you can observe their actions closely, ask questions, and gain insights. The right mentors are those who are just a few steps ahead of you—close enough to relate to your challenges yet experienced enough to guide you forward.

Tip: Avoid aiming too high too soon. If you’re just starting, someone two or three levels ahead can provide relevant, practical advice that’s still fresh and applicable to your situation.

3. Proven Experience

Experience is one of the most valuable aspects of mentorship. A mentor who has walked the path you’re on can help you avoid mistakes and recognize opportunities. Their successes and failures provide a roadmap, helping you make better decisions instead of relying on trial and error. On the other side, indeed, we shouldn’t scared to try things out, but by learning from those who are slightly more experienced than us, we can cut out unnecessary steps and conquer different milestones effectively.

4. Wisdom

Wisdom goes beyond experience—it’s about understanding deeper lessons and knowing how to apply them. A mentor with wisdom can help you navigate uncertainty, offering clarity where you might otherwise struggle. Learning from someone wise is like having a survival toolkit in a stranded place—you’ll be prepared for challenges before they even arise.

5. Support & Encouragement

Mentorship isn’t just about guidance; it’s also about connection. A mentor who genuinely cares will provide not just advice but also encouragement. Growth happens when both the mind and heart are engaged. If your mentor isn’t invested in your journey, the relationship will feel cold and unfulfilling.

Advice without friendship feels empty, and growth requires both head and heart.

6. Ability to Make a Difference

Great mentors don’t just give directions; they pull you forward. They challenge you, inspire you, and push you beyond your comfort zone. Even though personal growth is an individual journey, having the right mentor can make the path smoother and progress faster.

What Makes a Great Coach?

Good coaches and mentors share these five key traits:

• They genuinely care about the people they guide.
• They observe and understand attitudes, behaviours, and performance.
• They align individuals with their strengths to maximize their potential.
• They communicate effectively and provide constructive feedback.
• They help improve both performance and overall well-being.

The Power of Your Environment

Your environment significantly impacts your growth. If you’re surrounded by people who belittle your efforts, every step forward will feel like an uphill battle. On the other hand, being in the company of wise mentors, positive role models, and supportive peers makes personal growth both rewarding and sustainable.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Recognizing the need for mentorship isn’t a weakness—it’s a sign of self-awareness and maturity. Success is rarely a solo journey. Reflect on your surroundings: Are the people in your circle helping you grow? If not, it may be time to seek out those who will.

Take Action

1. Never expect to be an expert—stay open to continuous learning.
2. Surround yourself with people who share your curiosity and ambition.
3. Step outside your comfort zone and embrace new learning experiences.

Success is about the journey, not just the destination. Choose your mentors wisely, and in time, you may become the guiding light for someone else’s path.ner circles. Are the people around you helping you grow? If not, it may be time to seek out those who will. After all, success is rarely a solo journey. We need the help of at least one person. So, who are you going with, and who matters a lot? Choose wisely.

References:

Maxwell, J. C. (2022). The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth (10th Anniversary Edition): Live Them and Reach Your Potential. Hachette UK.