This topic is adapted from the SketchX YouTube channel. This is part 2 of 3 in the FLEXTALK 101 series.

In the previous topic, we talked about the importance of the “invite” – the first phase of FLEXTALK mentoring. In this topic we’ll talk about the second phase in the loop (below) – how to invest in someone – and we’ll show you how to use our Start Pages to do it.

Understanding Investing

Let’s start with a definition. The investing phase is when you commit to meet for a period of weeks or months to cover one topic at a time with somebody. It’s really that simple. Find a topic, learn about it from our resources, and explore it in conversation.

[Related: The FLEX Method]

The goal of these conversations is to add value to another person’s life, one topic at a time. So while our structured conversations give you direction, it’s really about the relationship you develop along the way.

Using a Start Page

How do you start investing – especially in those important first few weeks? Try a choosing a Start Page (see “Start” in the menu above). Each of these pages is structured with three main sections:

  • Intro: This section orients newcomers to our site through the “How It Works” tab and organizes the category content through the “Quick Browse” tab.
  • 101 Series: This is the starter series with ten of our most popular topics in the category.
  • Recent Posts: This displays our most recent topics in the category as we post new content weekly.

In order to transition from the “invite” phase to the “invest” phase, just be sure to use a Start Page. We’ve put them there to make it simpler for you to move someone forward through “The Loop”.

Now let’s finish with three principles for investing. These are core concepts when it comes to our mentoring philosophy at FLEXTALK.

The Discovery Principle

We believe conversations can open your eyes to life-changing insights. That’s the essence of the discovery principle, and our tools help you do it. As you talk through concepts and ideas with the people in your world, you begin to internalize the values that matter.

[Related: The Mentoring Law of Discovery]

The Ownership Principle

You’ll only get out of a conversation what you put into it, so be sure to come ready to talk. If you’re being mentored, don’t let your mentor work harder than you.

[Related: How to Take Ownership]

The Empowerment Principle

Anyone can be empowered to impact the lives of people around them through mentoring. That’s what our tools are about: empowering your conversations today with your group or mentor, and then empowering your conversations tomorrow when you become the mentor.

Now you’re ready to talk about this second phase of mentoring. Use the questions below, and be sure to check out the Start Pages on our site.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Watch the video together or invite someone to summarize the topic.
  2. What is your initial reaction to this video? Do you disagree with any of it? What jumped out at you?
  3. In your own words, describe the FLEX method. How does it facilitate the “discovery” principle?
  4. Make a list of the ways someone can show they are taking ownership in a mentoring relationship, both for the mentor and the mentee.
  5. Do you believe that you’re qualified to mentor someone? Why or why not?
  6. Do you think every person should be empowered to investment in another person’s life? Why or why not?
  7. Write a personal action step based on this conversation.