Since my early days of entrepreneurship I've maintained a close relationship with a few people who are a little bit older and more experienced than myself.  These close mentors have assisted me in ways that have always proven to be beneficial.  Sometimes their advice stings, hurts and is quite painful but ultimately, every single time they end up being right.  One of the benefits of being a mentor is the ability to see things in a much more objective light, sometimes without any direct recourse.

I've also been fortunate enough to "pay it forward" to other younger people within my sphere of influence, especially when it comes to entrepreneurship.  Guidance in life and business has been something that I've always tried to share with those around me over the past 20+ years.  Sometimes my advice has been well received and sometimes not.  Either way, I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to help lead and guide the way for so many people.  Being a part of the process is as important as being a recipient of the end result.    

In one instance I've helped guide, direct and lead a young man who is experiencing tremendous growth these days.  I hired him for his first job at 16 years old and spent the next couple of years teaching him the importance of integrity, honesty, respect and most importantly living a life driven by positivity.  He lives in another state now but we have worked diligently in maintaining a fair amount of communication via email and cell.  He's asked me for advice on relationships, career direction, buying a house and everything else under the sun for that matter.  I've always tried to give him advice as if I was him, but only 15 years in the future.  I'm not exactly sure what his plans are in the short term but I do know that he's very focused on what he wants out of life.  He's in his mid-20's right now so that picture is painted with cars, a house, plenty of money and guaranteed income for the future.  A few years ago I tried explaining to him that you don't want to focus only on the money, that can be a very dangerous road in which to embark but I don't think it was time for him to hear that from me so I'll save those conversations for when he gets in his 30's.

My mainstay mentor and I meet for breakfast or lunch every single month, have been since the mid-1990's.  He guides me and provides direction from areas that I didn't know existed, thank you Bob Loeffler, it's very much appreciated.

I challenge everyone, especially during these difficult times, to look around your circle of family and friends and see who you can help.  It can be as simple as a quick text message letting that person know that you are thinking of them and care about their success in life.  One simple connection can turn someone around in a very positive way.

Remember, it's easier to help someone than it is to ignore them.  We all "get by giving."  Don't you think it's time for us as a society to step up our contributions to one another?