When I think about the role that mentoring has played in my development, I can't help but reflect on how fortunate I was to find a mentor who truly helped shape not only my career, but also my life. I didn't intend to go into leadership; in fact, it was the only path I knew I didn't want to pursue coming out of nursing school. It wasn't until my mentor recognized my potential that I found my passion for nursing leadership.
I was fortunate enough to move into a director position and work for one of the preeminent nurse leaders in the country, Dr. Bob Dent. At first, I was intimidated by Bob's national status and his expansive knowledge. When I accepted the ED director role, I felt overwhelmed coming from a frontline clinical nurse position. I asked Bob if he would help mentor me outside of our employee-employer dynamic. He accepted, and we entered into a 1-year formal agreement that went on to be so much more.
During that formative year, I learned how to think outside of my comfort zone and beyond my narrow focus. Although the primary goal was career development, Bob soon helped me understand that professional advancement and personal growth work synergistically and shouldn't be compartmentalized. I learned how to identify my core values and incorporate them into everything I do. This guidance, along with Bob's willingness to let me try new things and his "proceed until apprehended" philosophy allowed me to flourish.
As we ended our formal mentorship agreement, I was challenged to think about my future. I told Bob that I wanted to be a CNO and, specifically, to succeed him. To be the CNO at my hometown hospital had become my dream job and career ambition. Bob was entirely supportive and even helped several other leaders prepare to step into the executive role. I asked Bob his thoughts on developing leaders to advance their careers, knowing they may have to pursue opportunities at another organization. He taught me that professional development and mentorship go beyond the organization to the entire profession. Preparing a nurse leader impacts no only his or her current organization, but also the nursing profession, which benefits from having a well-prepared leader mentor the next generation of nurses.
It's hard to articulate all the ways in which this mentorship relationship has shaped my life. Bob challenged me to pursue growth in professional development, as well as a more balanced life. Following his example, I took control of my health and happiness. I committed to a healthier lifestyle so I could be a better father and husband, losing 150 pounds in the process. With Bob's guidance, I went back to school and achieved my doctorate and attained multiple board certifications. Through his coaching, I became an improved leader for my team. I went on to receive national recognition as an emerging leader and present my team's amazing results through conferences, posters, and publications. Bob taught me the importance of professional organization involvement, leading me to pursue volunteer and elected roles in various leadership organizations.
Bob emphasized preparation and being ready to seize an opportunity even though you may not think you're ready. Following your intuition and trusting in your abilities can help you move past the status quo and into constructive territory. Bob impressed on me that the role of the leader is to adapt quickly and model the positive way forward in the face of failure. He demonstrated that personal development is never-ending and constantly evolving. Through some of our candid conversations, Bob helped me understand that promoting a specific value or idea doesn't mean you have mastery over it, but rather you recognize its importance and strive to achieve it. Most important, he enlightened me on the value of investing in people. If you devote the time and effort to coach and mentor someone, it benefits not only the mentee, but also countless others whom he or she will interact with throughout a lifelong career.
Bob and I did a video interview several years ago about the mentor's role. During the conversation, he talked about leaving a legacy, which helped me understand that I have a responsibility to share my knowledge and experiences with emerging leaders. When I first started in my role, I was a sponge trying to soak up as much information as I could. As I worked with Bob, he showed me that even early on in your career, you have knowledge and skills that can benefit others. Using what I've learned from Bob and my own experiences, I now serve as a mentor to other early careerists. I enjoy assisting new leaders to navigate their leadership development as I continue to grow.
This year I accepted the CNO position that my mentor vacated when he relocated to pursue a new challenge. Although I was saddened at the loss of an incredible leader and friend, I was excited about the opportunity to apply to the position for which he helped me prepare. The transition emphasized the impact that Bob had on his entire team and the tenets of his continuing legacy. Pursue your education and certifications so you can be ready to take on new opportunities when they arrive. Be coachable and open to new ways of thinking, seeking out new perspectives through networking and reading. Model the way, being transparent in your leadership journey and helping others find their path. Finally, know that things will always change and be ready to adapt.
As I grow and learn in my new role, Bob continues to help me in my journey. I cherish our friendship and am genuinely thankful for everything he's helped me to accomplish. Like many others, I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for my mentor Bob Dent.