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The best decision in life and in business I ever made was when I decided to look at my circle of influence and make some important changes, for the better as things turned out!
Many of us want a better lifestyle for ourselves and for our loved ones, regardless of what that better lifestyle may be.
To some people, a better job can offer a better lifestyle.
To others, a job alone is the goal.
While others may want more from their business, or other pursuits.
And some may just want to enjoy more quality time with their family.
All these definitions of a better lifestyle are OK!
It’s been said that
“You are the sum of the 5 people you spend the most time with!”
&
“If you would like to know the direction your life is heading, look at the lifestyles of those you spend most of your time with!”
Why?
Because right now, whether you like it or not, those 5 people are your circle of influence, and influence you they do, including sub-consciously!
Using a Circle of Influence to take your life beyond the next level involves a structured approach to identifying, leveraging, and expanding your network of people who can positively impact your personal and professional growth.
So how do you use your circle of influence to take you beyond your next level?
Here are the steps to more effectively utilize your Circle of Influence:
1. Identify Your Circle of Influence:
Assess Your Current Network: List the 5 people in your immediate or extended network who already have the results your desire. This includes family, friends, colleagues, mentors, industry peers, and social media connections. (This step is VITAL)
Categorize Contacts: Organize your contacts based on the level of influence they have on you. Categories could include mentors, collaborators, supporters, and potential mentors.
2. Specifically Define Your Goals:
Set Clear Objectives: Determine what you want to achieve in your personal and professional life. Goals could include career advancement, skill development, personal growth etc.
Align your goals with those who already have the results you desire. Identify which individuals in your Circle of Influence can help you achieve specific goals. Evaluate their strengths and how they can assist you.
3. Strengthen You Relationships:
Build Deeper Connections: Invest time in nurturing your relationships with your mentors. Engage in meaningful conversations, offer help, and show genuine interest in their well-being and success also.
Regular Communication: Maintain consistent contact with your key influencers and mentors. Use various communication channels like email, social media, phone calls, and even face-to-face meetings where possible.
4. Leverage the Knowledge of Your Influencers & Mentors:
Seek Guidance and Mentorship: Approach those who have the experience and knowledge you seek. Ask for advice, mentorship, and feedback on your plans and progress.
Collaborate on Projects: Partner with influencers and mentors on projects that can mutually benefit both of you. This could include co-authoring articles, joint ventures, or community initiatives etc.
5. Network Strategically:
Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars to meet new people. Join professional groups and online communities relevant to your field and your objectives.
Connect with Connectors: Identify and build relationships with individuals who have large networks and can introduce you to other influential people.
6. Provide Added Value:
Offer Help: Be proactive in offering assistance and support to your influencers and mentors. Share your expertise, resources, and networks to add value to their lives whenever you can for FREE. Help them and thyey will be more open to helping you.
Reciprocate Generosity: Ensure that your relationships with your influencers and mentors is mutually beneficial.
Ask well thought and considered questions of your influencers and mentors.
7. Monitor and Evaluate Your Progress:
Track Your Interactions: Keep a record of your interactions and the progress you make with the help of your influencers and mentors. Note any significant milestones or achievements.
Keep them updated about your progress.
Adjust Strategies and your Approach: Regularly review your goals and the effectiveness of your efforts. Adjust your approach as needed to ensure you are moving toward achieving your objectives.
8. Cultivate a Positive Mindset:
Stay Positive and Persistent: Maintain a positive mental attitude and be persistent in your efforts to build and leverage the suggestions of your Circle of Influence.
Embrace Learning: Be open to learning from the experiences of your influencers and mentors. Use setbacks positively, as opportunities for learning, personal growth and development.
9. Celebrate Your Successes:
Acknowledge Your Achievements: Celebrate your successes and milestones, no matter how big or how small. Share your achievements with your influencers and mentors and express gratitude to them for the help they gave you!
Reflect on Your Progress: Regularly reflect on your journey, the growth you’ve experienced, and the impact of your Circle of Influence on your life.
By systematically identifying, nurturing, and leveraging your Circle of Influence, you can propel your personal and professional life to new heights. This process requires consistent effort, strategic networking, and a commitment to providing value to your influencers and mentors as they provide value and help to you.
In Summary. To achieve your objectives in life, a good place to start is to firmly believe in the mindset of
‘If other people can do it then so can you!”
Surround yourself with people who already have the results you desire, people who also inspire you and who are willing to help you. During this evaluation, you will also discover those who have held you back for whatever reason, these are the people I highly recommend you manage and even limit your time with. You don’t need to sever ties with them, just recognise and limit your exposure to their influence over you.
Finally, be proud of the steps you’re taking, because you're literally the captain of your journey, and the master of your life!
Here's to your continued LinkedIn for business success.
If you enjoyed this article, Click here to watch my LinkedIn for Business video.
Regards from
Derick
P.S. Follow me, Derick Mildred for More LinkedIn for Business Tips & a Daily Dose of Inspiration. 😎😎
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