The Formative Power of Mentoring

A major study of Americans shows that mentoring is associated not just with achievement but with a stronger sense of self, belonging, community, exploration, and well-being. But during these increasingly challenging times, the young people who need mentors most may still be the least likely to have them.

Can a mentor’s influence last long after mentoring ends? This report indicates that people mentored as young adults tended to report greater life satisfaction later in life—regardless of family income. The findings suggest that mentoring may be one form of social capital that helps lay a foundation for lifelong well-being. ⁱ

What about wise companions who don’t give advice, solve problems, or assist with goal attainment—but help others notice God’s presence and discern his invitation? In a recent scientific inquiry, Christian school teachers who received spiritual direction reported greater vocational clarity, self-awareness, resilience, and integration of their faith with their work. ⁱⁱ

i.   Can’t remember who said it (maybe it was ME! No, I don’t think so), but mostly in life we want a map, and we are offered a guide. With a map I can still be in control and choose where and when. Which is not always good for my soul.

ii.   People often wonder what exactly ‘spiritual direction’ is. We could think of it like this: coaches give us guidance in pursuing our goals; mentors give us wisdom in whatever areas of life we ask for; therapists are equipped to help move us toward psychological health. The particular expertise of a spiritual director is that they help us pay attention to God. Instead of asking ‘how will you solve this?’, they ask ‘What might God be saying?’