Inspiration from a Mentor: Learning Life Skills from a Teacher

As someone who has dedicated decades to education, I have learned many invaluable lessons through the guidance of my teachers. Among the most profound was when I sought advice from my first principal, who taught me that students learn far more from their teachers than just the subject matter. This lesson was echoed by another mentor who instilled in me the power of positive thinking and its transformative effects on life. This article delves into these valuable insights and the journey that led to their realization.

From Feeling Down to Looking Up

My journey as a history teacher began two months ago, and much to my dismay, most of my students performed poorly on a test. Feeling defeated, I approached my esteemed principal for guidance. He looked at me with a composed demeanor and said, Andi, sometimes, what the kids learn has nothing to do with the subject you teach. They learn from you. These words resonated deeply, and they spurred me on to continue teaching with passion and dedication. My career as a junior high teacher spanned 30 years, and I remained grateful for his enduring wisdom.

A Lesson in Empathy and Support

Personality Development as a Mentor

My experience with my first mentor in personality development was equally profound. As an engineering student in my final year, I was assigned to a personality development teacher who not only honed my interview and communication skills but also supported me through the challenges of placement drives. The day finally arrived for the placement drive, and I was devastated to be rejected. My mentor, however, remained by my side, offering words of encouragement and a laugh to lighten the mood. She understood the emotional impact and was not merely focused on celebrating the success of others. Her presence during my down moments was a beacon of hope and support.

Hitting Rock Bottom and Rising to the Top

A Teachable Moment

My pride and lack of self-confidence took the driving seat, leading me to avoid her presence and even dissociate from my mentor's guidance. But after a few months, I had an epiphany and the courage to reach out for her help. In her cabin, she shared her own past experiences of not getting placed, reminding me that even successful individuals face setbacks. Her advice was invaluable and, most importantly, it instilled in me the strength to regroup and try again.

I eventually secured a placement, and her influence didn't stop there. Encouraged by her belief in me, I continued to apply for more placement drives. Her words of encouragement, when I felt I was falling short, led me to a big company, where I became one of only three selected from my college. My mentor not only helped me find success in the professional world but also taught me valuable life skills. She showed me the value of being humble and understanding, even when someone behaves foolishly. Her support was a catalyst for change in my life.

The Power of Words and Positive Thinking

The Law of Attraction

The best advice I ever received from a teacher was to use the law of attraction and watch the movie The Secret. The movie taught me the power of positive thinking and how our mindset can shape our reality. This lesson has stayed with me, reminding me that our words and thoughts can create positive outcomes. In moments of negativity, I remind myself that my mentor's words are a blueprint for how to navigate through challenging times.

Today, wherever I am in life, is because of her. Akanksha ma'am, your support and mentoring have transcended the boundaries of a professional relationship and become a lifelong inspiration. I hope one day you'll read this, and it will bring you happiness. Thank you for making me proud, Akanksha ma'am.

Conclusion

The journey of learning and growing as a teacher has been profoundly influenced by my mentors' guidance. They have taught me that being there for students, especially during their lowest points, can make a monumental difference in their lives. Like my mentor Akanksha, I aim to be a beacon of support and encouragement for my students.

Highflyer was the name of my mentor's training group, and I remember her not only from my engineering days but also as a lifelong inspiration. Thank you, Akanksha ma'am, for all your support and for being a great human being. The world needs more people like you.