Growing up, it took me awhile to realize this—I was so enamored of great musicians that I tried to be like them. But I confused a role model for a mentor. A role model gives you an example of how to live; a mentor teaches you what to do.
Musicians are focused on the craft. And a song is driven by melody—not by lyrics. First, the song has to flow. A songwriter is tied to the rules of rhythm; every song has a structure to be obeyed. So when it comes to lyrics, the truth is compromised—there’s no time for extended examples, drawn out conclusions, etc. Great songs don’t add words to convey the truth; they remove words to preserve the melody.
A mentor is what you need, what I need…what everyone needs! Because after the melody fades, you’re left with the questions:
- What are the fundamental differences between men and women?
- What are the secrets to a successful marriage?
- How are friendships built and maintained?
- How can you achieve financial freedom?
You won’t find these answers by whistling a tune. You’ll find them in the life experiences of those who are older and wiser than you. And when they speak, you won’t like it. You’ll hear about an ugly truth, a bitter reality, a tough decision. But if you want to grow, you need to listen. The old saying from Jamaica is true—good medicine tastes bad.
So behind every great man is a great mentor. Somebody who was taken into the fold and taught the tricks of the trade. To maximize your life, you’ll need to find these people. You’ll need their guidance to succeed.
The mentor is no rock star. But for you, he’s far more important…
Major Styles 
Mentors and students can learn from each other . . .
Very true. It takes a wise mentor to see that.