Why Mentors Have a Huge Impact on Life Success

August 14, 2013 by Taylor Studios in Professional & Industry Tips

After a year in college and living in the dorms, I was going through horse withdrawal. I wanted to have my horse at college with me. I decided to put an ad in the paper that I would work for the board of my horse. Lucky me. I found a horse farm owner that offered me the board of my horse if I would help take care of his stallions and mares. Gosh, I have to ride your rare Black Arabian Stallions and other horses in order to keep my horse here? That was an offer I could not refuse. I started riding before my horse arrived in Carbondale.

I ended up working, living and learning at this farm for over four years. I eventually ran completely out of money and this owner gave me a place to live too. I did as much work as I could for him along with my other job and going to school. It is sometimes strange what roads life takes you down. The impact of pursuing my horse passion had many advantages.

(left) This was Wayne’s Stallion “JC” that I helped keep in shape.

First, I got a mentor and life coach without even knowing it. Wayne Qualls, the owner of the farm was also an entrepreneur. He taught me a lot about horses and owning a business. He also encouraged me to become an entrepreneur. He showed me the rewards of hard work. I saw the pit falls of business ownership too. He once had money stolen from him by a relative out of the business.

Second, I got a second family while I was away at college. Third, I rode a black Arabian stallion bareback in an endurance race! Fourth, I learned a lot more about horse health, foaling and making stupid mistakes. Fifth, I learned there is always a way to make your dreams come true.

(right) This was my stallion at the place. I rode him the most and ride him bareback in the endurance race. Wayne told me to take him with me when I left and pay him someday. He was an expensive horse. Plus boarding a stallion needs extra duty durability in a stall or pasture. I didn’t have the means at the time. He eventually sold him. I think he went to Europe.

I encourage you to find a mentor. I didn’t know I had a mentor at that time, but I did and it had a huge impact on my life. In my business life I have invested in a business coach. I also have a group of trusted advisors. If you have people that can show you the way, ask you the tough questions, kick you in the butt when you need it, encourage you and advise you, the odds of your success will go up exponentially.

In recent years, I called Wayne to say “hi”. He asked me how many horses I had. At the time I had 10. He said, “why so few?” He is the only man that would respond that way. I love that!! Other men have said, “My next girlfriend will not have horses.” You got to find the right mentor! ☺

(below left) Dodger. He is out of Charlotte and my favorite stallion, Saully. (below right) The other stallion on the farm, Abitar. He was gentle for a stallion.