From the beginning, a mentor shows you the ropes, introduces you to the right people and points you in the right direction, suggesting training and professional development opportunities for career advancement. In short, a mentor works to ensure that you receive advantages for advancement. Few are lucky enough to have mentors tooting their horns. Most stumble along or believe success depends upon qualifications and credentials. Credentials do open doors, yet advancement requires more, including motivation and multiple networks.
Motivation is the toughest.
Start by recognizing that you're in charge. You have skills and talents and like any professional, you need support. Lots of it. You need more than one person, too. Staying motivated over the long haul takes networks of people to tap.