Nobody argues the great value of effectively mentoring those who follow; however, a leader's commitment to mentoring may wane when other more demanding events require attention. With Baby Boomers on the threshold of retirement, traditions of leadership will be changing rapidly throughout laboratory medicine in the coming decade. Smart leaders will help talented and willing individuals to position themselves well for new roles. Establishing a formal or informal mentoring plan will serve your laboratory well in preparing for the future, as well as providing inspiration for the present.