When I was in business school, we did a very powerful exercise in which had to pick 5 supplies from a list of 20 that we would want to survive an extended stay in the woods. Next, we broke up into groups of 4 and had to discuss and then agree as a group on the 5 items. The lists were all scored. As it turns out, of all 25 groups, there was not one individual score that beat the group's score! Each person in the group contributed knowledge and perspective that any one individual did not possess.
So who's in your group? Who around you can you trust to share knowledge, advice and candid feedback? Who can help you set goals, prioritize tasks and stay focused? This past week I attended an event with Keith Ferrazzi, the author of Never Eat Alone and Who's Got Your Back who passionately and eloquently made a strong appeal for developing and utilizing your close relationships. After his talk, I reached out to my network, asking for help and information on furthering my career as a writer. I was astounded at the outpouring of advice, connections and hearfelt encouragemet - the likes of which I could never have produced on my own. As I expressed my gratitude to each of my friends and colleagues, I realized that I was also giving them a gift of feeling great about their ability to help me out. I also hold out the hope that by being vulnerable and asking for help, they will feel comfortable asking me to do the same, and return the favor of allowing me to feel deeply satisfied for being able to help them.
This week I encourage you to give the gift that keeps on giving - either by offering help or by reaching out asking for it. In addition to strengthening your relationshps, you may gain invaluable insights and encouragement.
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