Unexpected Mentorship Moments

Have you ever asked someone the age-old question, “What advice would you give to your younger self?” I can think of many times early in my career when I asked this of a mentor, my boss, or another leader whom I most admired. Their advice was always filled with bits of wisdom, reflections on pivotal moments in their careers, and words of encouragement to take a leap and lean into uncomfortable growth.

Each time I asked someone this question, it brought me closer to an opportunity to learn and develop. While learning from mentors has always been meaningful and a goal of mine, as I’ve grown into new seasons of my life, I have realized that some of the most rewarding learning experiences have come from those closest to me. Mentorship can happen anywhere and with anyone, especially with those with whom we share our lives.

I asked my mom, an artistic soul who raised two kids and embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom, the critical question: “What advice would you give to your younger self?” My mom navigated a Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis at the age of 28, went back to college at the age of 48, and embraced sobriety at the age of 58—all while strengthening her dependence on her faith throughout her life.

Her answer was very simple: “Don’t focus on the ‘stuff’; focus on the moment.”

She explained that the dream house, car, grocery lists, and dates with friends had seemed monumental at the time. But when she looked back, she realized that they were the small things—the day-to-day parts of life. She said, “Don’t let the small things take you away from the big things that truly make you happy—your family, your marriage, making time for moments that connect to your values.” She added, “I look back on my proudest moments as being a mom and seeing you kids learn and grow.”

Her words resonated with me—the importance of balancing ambition with living in the present moment and being grateful for what you have and where you are. These are the moments that truly bring happiness.

My mom’s reflections sparked another question in me: “What moments truly make me happy?” With this question on my mind, I thought I might lean on my younger self a bit; after all, what’s better than engaging with two perspectives from two very different generations?

I asked my 14-year-old niece, Adriana. Adriana is an 8th grader with a talent for drawing henna tattoos, making people laugh, and keeping her cool under pressure (much more than I did at that age!). When I asked her, “What makes you truly happy?” her first response was simple: “My bed,” which made me laugh more than anything.

It opened the door to reminiscing with my niece about the most memorable moments of her childhood—like belly laughing with her dad in the middle of a restaurant booth or trying something scary and fun (like a four-wheeler) and learning how to master it at 12 years old. Some of her happiest moments included training her dog, playing the famous What Do You Meme? game, and teaching her Pop-Pop how to play. Sometimes, happiness was simply slowing down to rest in her comfy bed.

Adriana’s responses reminded me that happiness often lies in simplicity. The moments that mean the most are when we connect with family or loved ones, try something new for the first time and quietly get better and better each day, or create memories that are imprinted in our minds, making us laugh for years to come.

Adriana and my mom reminded me that mentors and learning moments can be found anywhere—just as true happiness and joy can be. Many times, the most joy-filled moments are the ones that contribute to making us who we are.

So, as I conclude, I’ll challenge myself—and you, as the reader—to slow down and look for the simple moments that bring joy. Approach each experience with an open mind and see what lessons can be learned—because everyone has a little bit of wisdom to share.

With a passion for philanthropy and community engagement, Gigi enjoys empowering and inspiring others to achieve their personal and professional goals and values lifelong learning, innovation, and collaboration. Gigi has various experiences in higher education, including graduate admissions, teaching, online learning, and student engagement. She holds a Bachelor's and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). She values engaging with various women's organizations in Delaware, including serving on the Great Dames Advisory Board, pas the Board Member of the Delaware Fund for Women, and current member of the Delaware Ace Women's Network.