Five Reasons You Need a Mentor (Even If You Don’t Think You Do)

You’ve probably heard the word "mentor" before; it’s one of those terms adults tend to throw around. Let’s break it down. Who is a mentor? A mentor is someone a bit older who cheers you on, gives advice, and sometimes has lived through your experience. Think of them as a guide who holds your hand and wants you to grow and succeed.

And no, mentors aren’t just for adults. They could be your older sibling, coach, teacher, parents, or even a friend with more experience. Mentors are all around you, ready to help you become the best version of yourself. 

A strong example is Viola Davis, whose life and career were profoundly shaped by her mentor Cicely Tyson.

Viola often speaks about how Cicely, a trailblazing Black actress, inspired her to pursue excellence in acting and to choose roles that uplift the image of Black women.

This here is an example of how mentors can significantly impact your life and future. Let;s talk about why having a mentor can change your life.

1. They Believe in You, Even When You Don’t Believe in Yourself

It’s not every day you feel on top of the world, and on those low days, you need someone to give you that extra push.

Imagine struggling with your schoolwork and starting to doubt yourself. A mentor is the person who reminds you who you are, even when you forget. They see your potential long before it appears on paper or in the spotlight.

And sometimes, that belief is all you need to keep going.

“You’ve got this” just seems different when it comes from someone who truly means it.

2. They’ve Been Where You Are (And Lived to Tell the Story)

Chances are, your mentor has lived through your life experience. This means, you don’t have to make the same mistakes they’ve made - you can learn from the lessons instead. They’ve made mistakes, had awkward phases, messed up big-time, and learned from it all.

So when they say, “Here’s what helped me,” they’re not lecturing you, instead they're guiding you towards a better path. 

3. They Help You See Your Blind Spots

We all have stuff about ourselves we don’t notice, like hidden talents we downplay, habits that slow us down, or patterns we don’t see.

A mentor helps you spot certain blind spots and points them out without making you feel bad and helps you identify certain talents that can unleash your potential.

And when this happens, don’t think of it as them bossing you around, they’re saying,

“Hey, have you noticed how your face lights up when discussing that?”

or

“You say you’re bad at math, but didn’t you just help your friend solve that problem?”

They help you see what’s already in you and connect the dots.

4. They Guide You, Not Control You

Mentors don’t have all the answers. They’re not there to pick your future or fix your life.

But they do ask good questions. They do challenge you to think deeper.

And they help you find your path, not just follow the one everyone expects.

That’s what real guidance looks like: support, not pressure.

5. They Show You What’s Possible

Sometimes, it’s hard to dream big when you’ve never seen someone like you doing the thing you want to do.

Mentors can be living proof that your dreams are valid. Whether it’s a big sister, teacher, artist, entrepreneur, or someone in your community, they remind you that you can show up fully as a Black girl and still do amazing things.

A mentor doesn’t just help you dream. They allow you to believe your dream is possible.

Ready to Find One? We’ve Got You.

At Sisters Keepers, we connect Black girls with mentors who care and people who understand their world, challenges, and power.

People who won’t try to change you will walk with you as you grow.

Because the journey is easier (and better) when someone’s got your back. Join here 

Remember:

You don’t have to live alone.

You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.

You don’t have to wait until you’re older to be poured into, or to pour into others.

The real glow-up?

It starts with connection.