"Will Work For Mentor"  − 14 March, 2007

This entry is not meant as a solicitation, but rather a regular entry of my thoughts and feelings.

I've been reflecting on my career lately.  I seem to do this ever 3-4 years, but this reflection comes with a bit of desperation. I recently updated my resume and as I read through the two pages summarizing the last 11 years of my life, I'm even amazed at what I've done.  I've worked for multiple fortune 500 companies, struggling startups and been responsible for multi-million dollar projects.  This doesn't seem to be enough for me.

Perhaps it's this strange sense of entitlement that I have that keeps my expectations too high.  I've always felt that I would be great someday.  In what, I'm still trying to figure out.  I've never regretted any decision that I've made when it comes to changing jobs or companies.  I've had some great jobs and some horrible ones.  So why does it seem that I'm always searching for something more?

I think it's because there is always something missing from all of my career adventures, a mentor.  Someone who who teaches me, challenges me and helps me figure out how to duplicate what they have done in their success. Someone who takes an interest in someone because they truly want to help.  I'm not sure how realistic this is, or if it's me trying to explain my career shortcomings.  I like to think this person does exist and that I'll meet him/her someday.

Maybe feeling refreshed about this realization is enough for now.

Comments:

kga245 (March 15, 2007. 05:33pm)

Hey, man. I know exactly how you feel. Learning is social. It sucks not being surrounded by those who inspire you. We all need mentors - at every stage in life. And we can draw inspiration from those who we might not even characterize as mentors - such as future brothers-in-law. :-)