Being a mentee is one of the most valuable ways to grow—in your career, your personal life, and your walk with Christ. A mentorship relationship offers the chance to glean wisdom from someone who has gone before you, helping you navigate challenges, clarify your goals, and stay grounded in your values. But like any relationship, it thrives when approached with intentionality and openness. If you’re part of a formal mentoring program like the 4word Mentor Program or simply stepping into a mentoring relationship informally, here are five practical ways to get the most out of the experience:

1. Begin with the End in Mind

Before your first mentoring conversation, take a moment to reflect: What do you want to be true because of your time with a mentor? Perhaps you’re seeking direction in your career, navigating a transition, looking for advice on balancing work and family, or needing spiritual encouragement. Whatever your motivation, write down a few clear goals. These don’t have to be rigid or overly formal but having some direction will give your meetings purpose. Share these goals with your mentor early on, and don’t be afraid to revisit and revise them as your relationship develops. The more clarity you bring, the more meaningful your time together will be.

2. Be Open and Honest

Mentorship works best when there is trust—and trust is built through honesty. It can be tempting to present a polished version of yourself, especially if you admire your mentor. But the power of mentorship lies in vulnerability. Your mentor can only help you with what you’re willing to share. Don’t be afraid to talk about the hard things: insecurities at work, struggles with feeling like an imposter, or confusion about what’s next. Likewise, celebrate your wins! Sharing the highs and the lows allows your mentor to walk alongside you more effectively and speak into your life with greater clarity and compassion.

3. Come Prepared and Stay Engaged

Your mentor is making an investment of their time and energy in you—honor that investment by coming prepared. Before each session, take a few minutes to jot down topics or questions you’d like to discuss. Send your mentor a quick email in advance with your thoughts. This helps guide the conversation and makes the best use of your time together. During your meetings, take notes, actively listen, and follow up on anything discussed. A mentoring relationship is a two-way street, and your engagement will influence its effectiveness.

4. Apply What You Learn

Advice only becomes transformational when it’s applied. If your mentor offers a piece of wisdom, a strategy, or a new perspective—try it out. Let their insight inform how you make decisions, approach challenges, or nurture your spiritual life. Even if an idea stretches you outside your comfort zone, consider how trying something new might lead to growth. Be sure to circle back with your mentor and share what worked, what didn’t, and what you’re still processing. This cycle of learning, application, and reflection deepens your growth and shows your mentor that their guidance is making a real impact.

5. Show Gratitude and Give Back

Mentorship is a gift. Don’t take it for granted. Be intentional about thanking your mentor—not just at the end of your time together, but regularly along the way. A simple thank-you email, a handwritten note, or even a short message expressing how their insight helped you go a long way. As you continue growing, consider how you can one day invest in someone else. Mentorship creates a ripple effect. When you’re ready, step into the role of mentor yourself and carry forward the wisdom and encouragement you’ve received.

Maximizing your mentorship experience isn’t just about receiving guidance—it’s about showing up, being real, and leaning into the process. With clear goals, honest conversations, full engagement, actionable steps, and a heart of gratitude, you’ll set the stage for a mentoring journey that brings lasting growth. A Christ-centered mentorship, especially, can be a sacred space for transformation. It’s a chance to see God work through someone else’s experience to shape your future.

Lean into the journey—and watch how God uses it to shape your path.

As the 4word Mentor Program Manager, Trina Lee is passionate about connecting women for life transformation. Since 2013, she has matched over 900 mentor pairs in this quarter-time role. Trina has been involved with 4word since 2011 and currently serves on the 4word: Portland leadership team.

With more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Trina also serves on the executive leadership team of Africa New Life as the U.S. Director of Program Alignment. In this role, she supports programs that help over 11,000 students in Rwanda attend school and more than 150 women receive vocational training.

Outside of work, Trina enjoys listening to podcasts, attending the ballet, and going on long walks. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Cornell University.