Each interaction with their prot g gives the mentor new data on which to chew. Each thought about the current challenges and future opportunities of their prot g gives the mentor pause to consider ways to be of better service. Reflective consideration by the mentor helps to insure that the mentoring process does not proceed in a rote, cookie-cutter fashion. There are six perennial questions that perceptive mentors regularly revisit. These questions guide them as they reflect upon and plan for the development of those they serve as mentor.
Effective mentors seek to invest in open lives with open needs.
They realize that to attempt to force-feed an unwilling prot g is a waste of time. They also realize that the prot g must be aware of specific areas in which they need guidance, support and encouragement. The mentor also ponders how his gifts, abilities and wisdom fit with the needs of the prot g . He assesses the kind of commitment it would take on his part to serve the prot g well. Wise mentors are willing to decline entering into a mentoring relationship rather than entering in without knowing that there is a place for them to serve.