Often, mentoring has offered me the difference between success and failure; positive and negative as well as a simple stop or go in my life. My philosophy about mentoring is there are three positions. First, you have a mentor. A person who is wiser, more experienced, fair, understanding, dependable and will be HONEST with you! Second, is the person you share a mentoring exchange – peer to peer, people you can bounce stuff off of each other. Third, you are a mentor, the person who helps someone to grow and develop through your experience.… you care enough to pay it forward.

I’ve had several mentors in my life who have developed my thinking, influenced my behavior and reminded me that my actions will last longer than me, so I should always move with grace. My first mentor was my mother, who I lost when I was a teenager. However, her wisdom, spirituality, strength, resiliency and the ability to adapt and overcome was amazing. Her essence yet navigates my decision-making, keeps my inner person centered while being a constant reminder to NEVER give up.

My mentors, such as my family, business associates, a few good friends and some military leaders have inspired me and reset my compass to guided me through various situations. I value and appreciate my mentor, their contributions and caring have made me a healthier, more improved and a further advanced Nancy R. Hornsby.