How to find the right mentor for you? Ankur Warikoo reveals the 3 things to look for that can help achieve life goals

Entrepreneur and content creator Ankur Warikoo has shared a simple but practical take on something many young professionals struggle with: finding the right mentor. In a recent LinkedIn post, he broke down not just what makes a good mentor, but also how people can actually reach out and build that relationship. The advice stands out because it moves away from the usual idea of chasing one “perfect” guide.

Why one mentor is not enough

Warikoo begins by clearing a common misconception. He points out that relying on a single mentor for everything is not realistic. “The mentor should NOT be the only one you have. One person can't take care of everything.”

Instead, he suggests building a group of mentors, each helping in a specific area. This could mean having different people to guide you on money matters, career decisions, or even personal growth. He shares from his own experience that he has separate mentors for different aspects of life. The idea is simple — no one person can cover every situation you will face.

Look for someone close to your stage in life

Another point he raises is about age and relatability. According to him, a mentor who is too far ahead in life may not always be the best fit. “The mentor should NOT be much older than you.”

He explains this with a candid example: “I will make a horrible mentor to a 20-year-old.”

The reasoning is that a large experience gap can make it harder for the mentor to connect with your current challenges. What feels obvious to them might be completely new to you. That is why he recommends choosing someone who is around five to ten years ahead, so their advice feels more practical and relevant.

A good mentor should challenge your thinking

Warikoo also stresses that a mentor is not there to agree with you all the time. In fact, the opposite is true. “The mentor should NOT think like you.”

He explains that the real value of mentorship comes when someone questions your ideas and pushes you to look at things differently. A mentor should be able to guide you into exploring directions you may not have considered on your own.

How to approach a mentor

Beyond identifying the right person, Warikoo also talks about taking the first step. He suggests simple and direct ways to reach out: “Send cold emails. Request them for an hour a month”

He also emphasises being clear about expectations and making the interaction meaningful. “Be clear about what you want from them in that hour, and update them on your progress.”

According to him, many people hesitate to ask, assuming others will not have the time. But he believes that unless you are targeting celebrities, most people are open to helping if approached with clarity and respect.

What comes through in Warikoo’s advice is a shift in mindset. Instead of treating mentorship as a formal or rare opportunity, he frames it as something more flexible and accessible. Having multiple mentors, choosing relatable people, and being open to feedback are small but useful steps that can make the process less confusing.