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Jennifer Hyman founded Rent the Runway, a clothing rental service, in 2009 and has served as its CEO ever since.
One of her board members, Dan Rosensweig, once mentored Jennifer with this deeply impactful assertion: “There are only two reasons why a founder leaves their company or stops working toward their dreams… either you stop believing in it, or you’re tired.” In an article for Money Report, Jennifer revealed that it was the best mentoring she’s ever received. Whenever she starts feeling, in her words, “unhappy and frustrated, blaming it on Rent the Runway,” she asks herself if she still believes in the mission of her company or if she just needs a break. Jennifer periodically checks in on her work self – does she still believe in her job? Passing on this mentoring, she urges, “Being tired isn’t a good enough reason to give up on something you believe in.” When I read these words, I felt like Jennifer was sharing her mentor’s wisdom with me! I entered January lulled by the holiday break, feeling confidently in charge of my time and efforts. But I tumbled out of the long month feeling stretched, scattered, and soul-punched. Something had to change. Fortunately, I made the time this week to attend the annual conference of ACNL (Association of California Nurse Leaders). I was quickly reminded why I believe in and work for the power of mentoring. Throughout the conference, the impact of mentors was threaded into presentations, posters, speeches, recognition awards, connections, conversations, and LinkedIn posts. I repeatedly heard attendees acknowledging their mentoring relationships – some mentors and mentees meeting for the first time in person! People regaled me with their mentoring stories, grateful for the ACNL Mentoring Program. Mission validated. Without mentoring, these dedicated nurse leaders would be experiencing their work and careers not in community but as individuals. Instead, they journey together, contributing to and witnessing each other’s growth and success. I felt rejuvenated! With Jennifer’s pivotal mentoring heavily on my mind, I had to admit… I’m tired. Reflecting on January, I must reckon with the reality that I have relapsed into my people-pleasing, team-rescuing, boundary-undermining, sleep-depriving habits. But now I have a new barometer. I will be making changes in my time choices while remaining steadfastly committed to my work. Imagine the seismic shift if we all consciously shared the transformative mentoring we receive… © 2025. Ann Tardy and MentorLead. www.mentorlead.com. All Rights Reserved. |