As I reflect on my own career, it's hard to imagine where I'd be if people didn't take early bets on me. 

I try my best to pay it forward, but I'm curious if anyone has ideas on to do it more intentionally.

I've never had a formal "mentor," fwiw.

Being a mentor is the most rewarding thing. I’ve done it in numerous contexts as a designer—from teaching at bootcamps to ADPList and programs like Co.Lab, and now through First Round.

The happy balance for me has been to join smaller communities and share your story…

/product-design | startup advisor | casting in /meesh | prev. @ reddit, okta (personal), lilblockparty.wtf, common.xyz, etc.

Right now I’m primarily focused on my mentee for First Round, but I still set aside time for others (through the SuperHi community).

Far less exhausting than teaching, ADPList, or Co.Lab.

Say you’re open to chatting more with aspiring builders, set up a separate calendar for it so you don’t get overwhelmed and bombarded.

Just helping one person makes a massive difference because you’re changing their life.