Volume 150, Issue 5, Pages 1067-1070 (May 2016) Mentoring: A Necessary But Not Sufficient Ingredient for Enhancing Success  M. Bishr Omary  Gastroenterology  Volume 150, Issue 5, Pages 1067-1070 (May 2016) DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.03.001 Copyright © 2016 AGA Institute Terms and Conditions

Figure 1 The ladder of mentoring. The schematic portrays a training and career ladder that begins with schooling and training that is followed by several career possibilities. Mentoring opportunities, including the scope of potential mentees, grow as one’s training and career develop but should start as early as possible. Gastroenterology 2016 150, 1067-1070DOI: (10.1053/j.gastro.2016.03.001) Copyright © 2016 AGA Institute Terms and Conditions

Figure 2 Attributes that help ensure a successful career. There are several essential elements (hard work, passion, setting goals and priorities, persistence), in addition to the importance of identifying mentors, that promote one’s ability to be highly productive in whatever career they pursue. Several other attributes build on these essential elements and in some cases one or more of these attributes can become detrimental or create barriers if absent (clear examples are being respectful and honest). The highlighted tenets are obvious but sometimes require one to take proactive measures to work towards them or to not dismiss them. Most important, we must not forget about family and loved ones and having fun while doing the work we enjoy. Gastroenterology 2016 150, 1067-1070DOI: (10.1053/j.gastro.2016.03.001) Copyright © 2016 AGA Institute Terms and Conditions