It’s important to surround ourselves by those who fuel us and give us life. This includes those who pour exclusively into us, those we walk along side, and those we pour into ourselves.
Coaches
Coaches are individuals we go to for their wisdom and expertise.
Whether we are seeking financial advice, theological insights, or someone to help us untangle the knots in our personal life, coaches focus on us and our needs.
This is a one-sided relationship in which we sit at the feet of others to receive from them.
We all have something to learn and can only grow into our potential with the help of these coaches, mentors, and guides.
Peers
Peers are individuals we enjoy a mutual partnership with.
While we might have different gifts and interests, we mutually challenge, support, and encourage each other.
This mutual vulnerability might make these relationships more challenging, but all the more important. Something different is required when we must both intentionally care for the other and allow ourselves to be cared for.
True peers enrich our lives for their partnership with us.
Mentees
Just as we were coached, there comes a time to also give back – to mentor and guide the growth and development of others.
While this is now a one-sided relationship focusing on the needs of the other, there’s still a sense in which these relationships are energizing.
It’s deeply fulfilling to make a difference in someone’s life – to give ourselves for their good.
Our life is out of balance when we don’t have relationships in each of these areas. We need coaches, peers, and those we ourselves mentor in order to live well.
Let each of these relationships fuel you and allow you to grow into the best version of yourself.
