Coming to Closure

Coming to closure presents a developmental opportunity for mentors and mentees to process their learning and move on regardless of whether or not a . . . mentoring relationship has been positive.

Zachary Lois J. (2000). The Mentor's Guide.  San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Components of Healthy Closure

• A learning conclusion (reflection on learning outcomes and process for integrating what was learned; how to apply the learning and take it to the next level)

• A meaningful way to celebrate success (collaboratively planning a mutually satisfying way to celebrate)

• A conversation redefining the relationship (talking about how the relationship is to continue, whether it moves from professional mentoring relationship to colleague, friendship, or ceases to exist at all)

• A comfortable way of moving on (acknowledging transition and identifying ways to sever the relationship or stay in contact)