Dear Mom: What Does a Mentor Look Like?

Meditations on tech across generations

Dear Mom,

I remember the first time I was awed by you. You lugged my brother and me to northern Minnesota for yet another work function. But instead of leaving us in the hotel, you brought us to a bland convention center room where a crowd had gathered. The state presented an award or a permit — I don’t remember exactly what — and after you spoke the crowd cheered and cameras flashed. I remember feeling so proud, so awed by your achievements.

That day taught me that I should always cherish what you tell me. Yes, you’re my mother and elder, but you’re also an individual who negotiated her way from small-town farm girl to entrepreneurial powerhouse. You know things and, just as importantly, you’re always willing to lend an ear and advice. As we covered in our earlier letter, you have always let me forge my own path, but you gave me directions when I asked along the way.

I struggle to fit this relationship into the word “mother” or even “friend.” It’s better to say “mentor,” though that word is often reserved for business relationships. I’ve found other mentors, too; colleagues who saw potential in me, or maybe mother-figures who wondered how this little lost duckling managed to wander into their office. They’ve come and gone, but undoubtedly left broad strokes on my life.

Am I doing enough? What does a good mentor look like, and how should I go about finding one?

Love,

Signe