A dinner party could change everything.
The moment at take off, when you’re unsure of what lies ahead.
That one decision that could branch into 15,000 possibilities.
That YES! that sets your life on an entirely new path.
The uncertainty that comes from doing something different.
The quickening of your heart as you step into the unknown.
Have you scared yourself lately?
Some people live on the edge of what’s possible. They defy expectations and buck norms.
Some people follow what has come before. They do what they are told and stay in line.
Some people wander aimlessly. They dream about “what if” and believe success finds the lucky. They attribute greatness to others, failing to see it in themselves.
The difference lies in the acknowledgement of your worth, the realization of your strengths, confidence in your unique talents (for nobody does it quite like you), and the conversion of belief into action. Pick yours.
I often hear the following:
It’s easy to place the blame on outside factors and fault something external, something beyond our control — a difficult situation, a partner’s deficit, the inability of a client to clearly communicate. The challenging route is an active one, requiring self-discipline and honest assessment. For example:
Self-analysis can be trying, confusing, and difficult to navigate; however, it is an essential step in identifying the roles we create in our lives.
How do you contribute to common perceptions of your character and personality? What behaviors do you repeat that fail to serve you in your most valued personal and professional relationships?
Most often, the gate towards fulfilling, meaningful connection begins with you.
You’ll hear all sorts of objections. You get to decide if you’re going to listen.
Develop responses you can quickly and easily remember. You’ll need rebuttals you can use for yourself and for the world.
This may sound hokey, but stay with me.
If you were an outside observer watching the events of your life on a movie screen, would you enjoy what was playing?
When we’re able to remove ourselves and consider our decisions objectively, we gain valuable information. Our emotions no longer dictate action. By stepping back, we can better identify the path we’re traveling on.
Are you moving closer towards your goals and the person you hope to be? Are you creating something you’re proud of?
Envision your life on film.
People are watching.
Tip #1: If you’re looking to connect meaningfully, place the other before you.
Most successful people are busy people. They’ve carved time out of their day to meet with you. Time is a resource neither party can redeem after you’ve parted ways. Be considerate.
After every meeting, thank each and every person for their contribution and time. A follow up thank you builds rapport and communicates respect, paving the way towards a meaningful connection. Your thank you also provides an opportunity to make sure your intent and needs have been clearly communicated.
Tip #2: People cannot help you if they don’t know how.
“I’m looking for a job” will quickly place you into a forgotten drawer of miscellaneous. However, confidently stating, “I’m looking to support locally owned restaurants with sustainable missions” positions you in a specific category, making your ask an easy recall. Guess who will be first in mind when any kind of opportunity in the health, wellness, hospitality, sustainable industries pops up? Be specific and know what you want. People generally want to see you succeed and will help if they know how.
Tip #3: Jazzy Jane from Toledo is sitting by the cheese dip.
Effective networking and memorable impressions go hand in hand. It’s like learning names. Create a colorful story when you first meet someone, and you’ll have an easier time asking them to pass the salad bowl.
What characteristics separate you from the crowd? Practice telling your unique narrative to a friend. If you aren’t comfortable making your remarkable presence known, chances are high that you won’t during your meeting, either.
