Finding a Mentor Who Changes Your Life: Lessons from Don Mitchell

The Power of Mentorship

In 2006, during a pivotal moment in my career, I was hosting a major investment conference for the mining and oil and gas sectors in Dubai. It was a whirlwind of high stakes and high-profile moments, capped by having Madeleine Albright as our keynote speaker. Meeting her was an extraordinary honor. Sitting down for tea with her, sharing stories, and listening to her wisdom was unforgettable. She was everything I admired, intelligent, diplomatic, and deeply curious about others. Her words of encouragement about my journey left a lasting impression on me.

The trip was memorable because of Madeleine Albright, and it was also when I met Don Mitchell, a man who would become one of the most significant mentors in my life. Meeting him was serendipitous, and at the same time, something I had asked the universe for - someone to help me navigate the next level up in my career.

From Panic to Confidence

At the time, my business was thriving, I was making money, yet I was riddled with fear. Fear of failure, fear of making mistakes, fear of losing everything I had built. I felt like I was navigating uncharted waters without a guide. I longed for someone who had been where I was headed, someone who could help me move past my panic and into confidence.

And then Don appeared.

From the moment we met, Don’s wisdom and approach to life left an indelible mark on me. One of the first things he taught me was the power of inclusion. Whether it was a simple hello in an elevator or introducing people to one another, Don emphasized the importance of creating connections and highlighting the unique gifts that others bring to the table. He believed in getting to know people deeply, what makes them exceptional, what they have achieved, and how to help them shine.

Creating My Get-Well Plan

Don’s influence was profoundly practical. In our first meeting, he sat me down with a legal pad and said, “Let’s create a Get-Well Plan.” It was simple yet revolutionary. We mapped out where I was, where I wanted to be, and the steps to get there. That plan became my roadmap for years, guiding me through challenges and opportunities alike. I have taught this concept to countless others since, and it even made its way into my book on financial freedom (Secrets of a Closet Millionaire on Amazon).

It Was Destiny

What stands out most about Don’s arrival in my life was how it felt almost destined. I had prayed for guidance, for a mentor who could help me navigate the complexities of success and fear. I set the intention and remained open to receiving help, and then Don showed up.

This experience taught me an essential truth: we need to ask for what we need. Whether it is through prayer, intention-setting, or simply writing it down, clarity and openness can invite the support we seek into our lives.

Don taught me more than being a more successful businessperson, he taught me how to live more fully, more connected, and with greater courage. And for that, I will always be grateful.

So, as you think about your own journey, I encourage you to ask yourself: What do you need? Who can help you get there? And are you open to receiving the guidance that the universe might send your way?

Here’s to mentors who change lives!