Taking an interest in the success of others, especially those who are younger, is one of the greatest gifts you can give. It’s the ultimate mentorship program and it’s timeless.

I was blessed to have several adults pour into my life when I was young, and I think it’s why it’s a high priority to me to do for others. Though they have passed away now, the efforts of a retired couple for me will always keep Earl and Bertine alive in me. They often hired me in my early teens to mow and do other upkeep on their rather large property in Arkansas.

Too many memories to write here but I’ll mention one of the strongest. Earl spent his working life building carburetors and was very mechanical however age had taken his eyesight. He channeled his impediment to telling me what to do with my 11 year old hands. It wasn’t easy for either if us but with patience he guided me to repair countless pieces of equipment. It was mostly with words but sometimes I guided his hands to show me by feeling how to take complex machines apart and out them back together again.

Always be ready to give patient guidance and to receive the same. Don’t let the spreadsheets and performance metrics of projects and programs rob you of the opportunity. You’ll be glad.