How did mentors influence Ray Dalio?

Ray Dalio shared that while he doesn't credit ongoing mentorship as a key component of his development, early influences did play a role. He recalls a Wall Street professional he caddied for as a young man, who was not an ongoing mentor but provided valuable guidance and served as a role model. This individual discussed markets with Dalio and showed kindness that left a lasting impression, helping to guide him early in his career. However, Dalio emphasizes that most of his learning came from personal experiences and mistakes rather than traditional mentorship 1.