Yes, you can be both a mentor and a mentee

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned in my career is that you can be a mentor and a mentee - and sometimes at the very same time.

Mentorship isn’t always a formal program or a long-term commitment. Sometimes, it’s as simple as offering guidance during a tough week, sharing advice from your own experience, or just being a sounding board for someone who needs it.

No matter where you are in your professional journey, you have something to offer and something to learn.

Plus, it’s not just good for your mentee. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, people who serve as mentors report increased job satisfaction and are 6x more likely to be promoted. 

Mentorship creates space for connection, reflection, and growth on both sides.

Not sure where to start when looking for a mentor?

Start with curiosity. Reach out to someone whose work you admire, ask a thoughtful question, and see where the conversation leads. Many mentoring relationships begin with one genuine connection.

So whether you’re helping someone rise or reaching out for insight yourself, lean into it. You never know how much it could shape your path (or someone else’s).