Water Worries

I've always tried to find the simplest ways to solve problems that arise around me and to that end, I can't help but feel that there is a relatively simple fix to the water "crisis" I hear about on the evening news here in Las Vegas all the time. I mean I won't even address the issue of apartment complexes watering nearly 24/7 while water runs off the sidewalks and driveways, but a bigger issue seems to be the insistence of people who, although we live in the desert, insist on having rolling lawns of green grass everywhere.
How about this SNWA, give property owners a generous tax credit if they replace their lawns with natural desert landscaping.
Some of that landscaping is actually quite beautiful and think of all the savings across the board. If a real incentive is in place I think most people would realize the benefit.
I also think it's being a bit more proactive rather than reactive.
Seems like a fairly simple fix to me.
If you have any thoughts on the subject or would like to promote this idea, feel free to do so below or you can email me at: rmvcard@aol.com

Anatomy of a Mentor

I have been mentoring people for more than thirty-five years while running my other businesses. Now that I'm retired (sort of), I decided to commit to mentoring on a full time basis. I saw this article recently and found it to be spot on in describing what I provide for my clients. And so, I pass it along to you.

I am frequently asked one or more of the following questions regarding the anatomy of a mentor:

·                            What is mentoring?

·                            Who can be a mentor?

·                            When to get a mentor?

·                            Where and how can you find a mentor?

·                            How to determine fees and related value of a mentor?

Let’s start by defining mentor. A mentor is a seasoned, wise and reliable guide and teacher. Its synonyms are counselor, guide, tutor, teacher, guru, supporter and advisor. This provides important clues to the answers to above questions. This definition also tells us the qualities a mentor needs to posses and what is to be expected of a mentor.

All too often, mentoring is confused with coaching. These two things are not the same. You will notice that coach is not a synonym of mentor. Coaching primarily involves teaching and training. The coach is expected to have a working knowledge of the specific area and an ability to train others in that field.

Mentorship is a fully engaged personal relationship for developmental purposes. A seasoned, more experienced or more knowledgeable person who has attained expertise and wisdom through learning and experience, guides a less experienced or less knowledgeable person on an ongoing basis. True mentoring is more than just answering sporadic questions or occasionally providing informal help. It is an ongoing relationship.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is about an enduring relationship of teaching and learning through ongoing dialog and interaction. Mentoring involves informal imparting of knowledge, strategies and tactics. It entails communication, guidance and support during a sustained period of time, as it is pertinent to work, career, and personal and professional development.

Who can be a mentor?

A mentor is a seasoned, wise and reliable guide and teacher. This simple description spells out the qualifications a mentor must have in order to be able to deliver. Being seasoned and wise is typically a result of formal and informal education and real-life experience gained through the school of hard-knocks. Reliability is a personality trait, as is the commitment to teach. Have a candid conversation with your potential mentor and learn about his or her background, qualifications and general outlook. This will help you ensure compatibility.

When to get a mentor?

You will find having a mentor to be optimally beneficial in one of the two circumstances. First, a mentor can help you become better equipped to meet a specific goal in personal or professional development. Second, when you are faced with an unexpected situation, conflict or crisis, dealing with which appears to be beyond your capabilities.

Where and how can you find a mentor?

Finding a suitable mentor can be a challenge. Even a search on the Internet may not easily lead you to one. A coach is not the same as a mentor. The best way to find one is to use the same methods you use to find other professionals, like doctors, dentists, attorneys etc. Ask for referrals from your network. Most importantly, when you find someone whom you think can be a good mentor for you; it’s time to have a candid conversation. Make sure you understand his or her expectations, method of working and do’s and don’ts. Then spell out your own objectives, expectations and do’s and don’ts. Compatibility is key. It is always a good idea to clearly define the parameters of a relationship, particularly one such as this.

How to determine fees and related value of a mentor?

A thorough evaluation of the benefits you will gain from being mentored is a good place to start. Then determine the dollar value of those benefits and measure that against the fees. You must also factor in the knowledge and long-term benefits that you will receive, even after the mentoring arrangement has ended. It is important to know upfront about all costs, fees and when you are expected to pay those fees.

If reading this article has triggered questions, or you wish to chat about this or any other relevant subject, feel free to connect with me, directly. My contact information is: rmvcard@aol.com  or  702-466-9697