The most successful business leaders in history - Carnegie, Ford and Rockefeller - have used this principle. Thomas Edison used this principle. Mahatma Gandhi used this principle. And many more.
What is this principle that has contributed to history’s greatest success stories? This principle is:
*** The Power of 1+1=3 ***
No, it is not a new math formula. This principle represents a “Higher Force” ... a collective force greater than any individual ... created through the power of Master Mind Alliances.
WHAT IS A MASTERMIND ALLIANCE?
A Master Mind Alliance is a group of like-minded individuals with the common purpose to contribute to each others’
success, in a spirit of harmony, partnership and reciprocity.
HOW DO MASTERMIND ALLIANCES ACCELERATE YOUR SUCCESS?
Such Alliances work on two levels:
THE ECONOMIC LEVEL:
A Master Mind Alliance becomes your own personal Board of Directors who wholeheartedly give advice, expertise and knowledge to further your success.
THE PSYCHIC/SPIRITUAL LEVEL:
When Master Mind Alliances form for the sole purpose of mutual success, a “Higher Creative Force” results, allowing
each participant to achieve more than is possible on their own.
In practical terms, MasterMind Alliances ...
• Raise your income, and productivity.
• Give you an opportunity to leverage the wisdom and real-world experience of other business owners.
• Provide creative ideas for improving your business.
• Give you support and encouragement from within a group of your peers.
• Inspire you to reach new heights as a result of others' success.
• Provide a networking source of great contacts, referrals, and connections.
• Give you an opportunity to share your experience and contribute to other's success.
• Gives you a great way to monitor your progress and accountability.
• Provide a forum to reflect on your business results and strategies.
• Are a great place to air your ideas and plans and get feedback.
• Achieve more than you could on your own.
HOW DO YOU PARTICIPATE OR FORM A MASTERMIND ALLIANCE?
For 25 years, I have both participated and facilitated MasterMind Alliances and have gained much wisdom in what works and doesn't work. As simple as the concept of a MasterMind Alliance sounds, the logistics of such groups can make or break their impact. Below are the top 7 critical success factors when forming or participating in a mastermind alliance.
1. Clear Common Group Purpose
Does each member have the same needs and wants from the group? Eg., some members may be primarily interested in brainstorming; another may have joined the group for emotional support and connection. If members do have different needs, is there a way of addressing all of them without diluting the cohesiveness of the group? What will be the key focus of the group?
2. Group Chemistry and Trust
What is the level of trust in a MasterMind Alliance? Trust in a mastermind alliance comes from respect and supporting each other, from communicating cleanly and from a spirit of collaboration rather than competition. Without trust and chemistry, a true mastermind alliance does not exist.
3. Serious Commitment
The biggest reason, in my experience, why mastermind alliances fail is because one or more members did not make a serious commitment and make participating in the group a top priority. Lack of serious commitment destroys the cohesiveness and momentum of the group.
4. Group Decisions and Responsibilities
While one person may start the alliance, within the first meeting, it is important that the success of the group becomes every member's responsibility. It is critical that the leadership of the group and other responsibilities be rotated amongst members. All decisions should be done by group consensus.
5. Consistent Meeting Format
Having a set structure and agenda for each meeting is essential. Possible agenda items may include: brainstorming, a quick check-in, an accountability segment, sharing of resources, etc.
6. Equal Give and Take
The purpose of a MasterMind Alliance is both to give and receive support. Reciprocity is critical. If a group becomes imbalanced where some members only give support or some only receive support. it destroys the very foundation of the group. Active giving and active receiving maximizes the flow of ideas, energy and outcomes of the group.
7. Closed Membership
In my experience both as a facilitator and participant, it is important to allow the first 1-3 meetings for members to explore whether the group is a good fit for them. Once a decision is made by each individual, closing the group to new members allows the group to bond, know each other in depth and allow the trust to form. That is when the magic begins. Group dynamics are very volatile to changes, especially with changes in membership. If, after a certain period of time, the group wants to add new members, how many and who should be a group decision.
While there are many other logistical details beyond the scope of this article, the key is staying focused on that common purpose to contribute to each others’ success, in a spirit of harmony, partnership and reciprocity. I can say, from my own personal experience, that mastermind alliances have been and continue to be the #1 driver of accelerated momentum, success and breakthroughs in my business. As a facilitator of MasterMind Alliances for CEOs and business owners, I have also watched how that "Higher Force" ignites the potential and greatness in each member, beyond what anyone could imagine.
For an additional resource regarding Master Mind Alliances, I recommend reading Napoleon Hill’s classic best-seller, “Think and Grow Rich”, Chapter 9. According to Hill, such Alliances have been the basis of every great fortune in history.
What are you waiting for? Find or form your own MasterMind Alliance.
Denise Corcoran - CEO, The Empowered Business (tm) - assists CEOs, executives and business owners in taking a quantum leap from the ordinary to extraordinary … from unrealized dreams to mastering their destiny … from slow growth to exponential results. A business & leadership coach, strategic consultant and Master NLP Practioner, Denise's unique "inside out" approach provides deep transformation and lasting change in you, your organization and your results. Her latest e-book: "The Mindset of Greatness: 21 Principles to Becoming an Unstoppable Woman ... Oprah Winfrey Style!" http://www.EmpoweredBusiness.com
Subscribe to her monthly ezine - The Empowered Business (tm) - and learn the legendary mindset, strategy and performance secrets of top business achievers. http://www.goldbar.net/go.php?id=7996&c=1738&ac=ezar
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denise_Corcoran
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Saturday, December 19, 2009
The Power of a Board of Advisors or Mastermind Group
This week I've had a lot of discussions with people about Mastermind Groups. All large corporations have a Board of Directors to be sure the company stays true to their mission, hit their numbers and fulfill their responsibility to stockholders. Small businesses (even sole-proprietorships) need them too. But usually, only those small businesses who accept private funding (from banks, angel investors, venture capitalists) have outsiders on their Board of Directors. A professional Board of Directors may not always create a happy, supportive, safe environment for business owners to turn to for problem solving, brainstorming, or even feedback.
On the other hand, we all need a sounding board, experts on our side, and a safe haven in which to ask for and receive help and advice. Every small business owner, CEO, or entrepreneur (in my opinion) must have a Board of Advisors. The easiest and fastest way to put one together is to join/create a Mastermind Group where each member gets and gives equal doses of advice from the group. I wanted to share with you my top ten reasons why you need one.
1. In a Mastermind Group the agenda belongs to the group and each person's participation is key. Peers give each other feedback, help each other brainstorm new possibilities, and set up accountability structures that keep each other focused and on track. They create a community of supportive colleagues who will brainstorm together to move each member of the group to new heights.
2. Each member gains tremendous insight, which can improve their business and personal life. A Mastermind Group is a powerful influence and resource.
3. Here is a golden opportunity to interact and collaborate with like minded people in a non-competitive environment.
4. Be part of a distinct community - a tribe. It is an instant and valuable professional support network. You get to team up with people who are better than you at some area of business or experience - people you can learn from.
5. You will find and attract people who can help and support you - good match for the long term growth and success of your business.
6. It helps you establish a strong personal foundation and see beyond what you can see yourself.
7. Share business models with each other and brainstorm with people who are already on the same wavelength. You get a sense of shared endeavor - that there are others out there!
8. You can walk away with a gem/perspective changed from each meeting - there's no wasted time or energy.
9. Experience, skill and confidence develop from the Mastermind Groups' support freeing you to take more risks and reach for bigger goals and dreams.
10. The Mastermind Group will help you design your business (and your life) to be the way you want them to be, not as you've been told things should be.
http://www.articlesbase.com/self-improvement-articles/the-power-of-a-board-of-advisors-or-mastermind-group-1600267.html
On the other hand, we all need a sounding board, experts on our side, and a safe haven in which to ask for and receive help and advice. Every small business owner, CEO, or entrepreneur (in my opinion) must have a Board of Advisors. The easiest and fastest way to put one together is to join/create a Mastermind Group where each member gets and gives equal doses of advice from the group. I wanted to share with you my top ten reasons why you need one.
1. In a Mastermind Group the agenda belongs to the group and each person's participation is key. Peers give each other feedback, help each other brainstorm new possibilities, and set up accountability structures that keep each other focused and on track. They create a community of supportive colleagues who will brainstorm together to move each member of the group to new heights.
2. Each member gains tremendous insight, which can improve their business and personal life. A Mastermind Group is a powerful influence and resource.
3. Here is a golden opportunity to interact and collaborate with like minded people in a non-competitive environment.
4. Be part of a distinct community - a tribe. It is an instant and valuable professional support network. You get to team up with people who are better than you at some area of business or experience - people you can learn from.
5. You will find and attract people who can help and support you - good match for the long term growth and success of your business.
6. It helps you establish a strong personal foundation and see beyond what you can see yourself.
7. Share business models with each other and brainstorm with people who are already on the same wavelength. You get a sense of shared endeavor - that there are others out there!
8. You can walk away with a gem/perspective changed from each meeting - there's no wasted time or energy.
9. Experience, skill and confidence develop from the Mastermind Groups' support freeing you to take more risks and reach for bigger goals and dreams.
10. The Mastermind Group will help you design your business (and your life) to be the way you want them to be, not as you've been told things should be.
http://www.articlesbase.com/self-improvement-articles/the-power-of-a-board-of-advisors-or-mastermind-group-1600267.html
Friday, December 18, 2009
Get the Power of the Mastermind Group
A MasterMind Group is a powerful tool for success. Talk with any truly successful person and most will tell you that a MasterMind Group played a pivotal role in their realization of unlimited possibilities. They also found the support and accountability the group provided gave them the necessary structure that they needed to focus on their "definite purpose".
What is amazing is the number of people who do not take advantage of a MasterMind Group for whatever reason. Those are also the same "reasons" they use for living a life of mediocrity and not achieving the level of success that they "talk the talk but don't walk the walk". This is a chance to put miles and years between you and your competitors and you do that by don't what they don't do...you get a MasterMind Group.
When you find others with a burning desire to overcome all the obstacles that are between them and the success lifestyle they desire and join them in a group, you will find yourself immersed in the "power of the Master Mind" and guarantee your own success. The mixture of unique experiences, the expansive knowledge, the array of skills and the networking opportunities increase geometrically with each group member. If you have spent a lot of time alone, trying to work out the problems of your business, you know it would be great to have some others to discuss your thoughts and get their input even if it only backs what your were thinking. It is great to have that sounding board to give you feedback from a different perspective that you may have never considered and then implement those recommendations and have your business take off. It has happened to many others and it can happen to you but you have to take action...at least twice.
The first action is to get a MasterMind Group and the easiest way to do that is online here. The second action is participate; immerse yourself in your MasterMind Group. Everything you put into the group will come back to you many, many times over. It will be the best business decision you can make as we go into 2010.
http://knol.google.com/k/glenn-sojourner/get-the-power-of-the-mastermind-group/1dt27q7dj0zy5/3#
What is amazing is the number of people who do not take advantage of a MasterMind Group for whatever reason. Those are also the same "reasons" they use for living a life of mediocrity and not achieving the level of success that they "talk the talk but don't walk the walk". This is a chance to put miles and years between you and your competitors and you do that by don't what they don't do...you get a MasterMind Group.
When you find others with a burning desire to overcome all the obstacles that are between them and the success lifestyle they desire and join them in a group, you will find yourself immersed in the "power of the Master Mind" and guarantee your own success. The mixture of unique experiences, the expansive knowledge, the array of skills and the networking opportunities increase geometrically with each group member. If you have spent a lot of time alone, trying to work out the problems of your business, you know it would be great to have some others to discuss your thoughts and get their input even if it only backs what your were thinking. It is great to have that sounding board to give you feedback from a different perspective that you may have never considered and then implement those recommendations and have your business take off. It has happened to many others and it can happen to you but you have to take action...at least twice.
The first action is to get a MasterMind Group and the easiest way to do that is online here. The second action is participate; immerse yourself in your MasterMind Group. Everything you put into the group will come back to you many, many times over. It will be the best business decision you can make as we go into 2010.
http://knol.google.com/k/glenn-sojourner/get-the-power-of-the-mastermind-group/1dt27q7dj0zy5/3#
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Three Key Tips for a Successful Mastermind Group
" Health, happiness and success depend upon the fighting spirit of each person. The big thing is not what happens to us in life - but what we do about what happens to us ." George Allen
I am always looking for solutions. The concept of the mastermind group is vividly described by Napoleon Hill in "Think and Grow Rich". Consider the people in your life that are supportive of you. Identify the people willing to give you honest feedback and genuinely want the best for you. Who are the mentors, close friends or professional associates that you trust?
You might already have a support system, people you turn to for advice and to confide in. Do you have a network of people you speak with about aspects of your life? The mastermind group will give you accountability and support on the goal that you are working toward. Napoleon Hill defined the "Master Mind" as "coordination of knowledge and effort, in a spirit of harmony, between two or more people, for the attainment of a definite purpose".
Think about the direction you are heading toward, are your goals primarily personal or professional? This affects the type of people chosen to be in your group. The most successful people realize they do not have all of the answers and look to others for guidance and insight as they work toward specific goals.
The next aspect to consider is the purpose of the mastermind group. One type of mastermind group is solely designed to help you reach your goals. A second alternative is to have the people on the group working toward the same goal or project. The other option is to have a group of people that each have goals and they use the group for support in reaching their individual goals. Napoleon Hill states "No two minds ever come together without thereby creating a third, invisible intangible force, which may be likened to a third mind [the master mind]." The benefit of working toward goals, no matter which type of group you choose, is the insight and accountability you receive from the other members of the group.
Three key tips increase the success of the mastermind group include specific goals for each group member, trusting the group members and having ground rules.
1. Have a common goal and meaning for the group. The mastermind group's purpose is to advise as a way to help each group member reach peak potential. The bonus is getting a group of people with differing perspectives. Each member is a necessary part of the group offering insights that could help you reach your goals sooner than if you were just working on your own. Each person's unique experience and perspective will propel you toward attaining your goals at a faster pace than working toward your goal alone.
2. Trusting the other group members is necessary in a mastermind group. The group offers accountability and support. Harmony will develop as the group forms and each person is committed to work toward their goal as well as being a support for the other members of the mastermind group. Because each person is working toward their own goal as they support the other members of the group, this creates an incentive to be fully vested in the group. Creating a safe and healthy group dynamic is necessary for it to function effectively.
3. Developing ground rules that are agreed to by all group members clarifies expectations. Although many mastermind groups are lay-led without a facilitator, developing norms helps to build trust and commitment. Another option is having a leader who will facilitate the discussion and coordinate the group.
Mastermind groups can take many different forms. Some of these include King Arthur's Round Table and his advisers, a council, board of directors and support group meetings. As a result of Napoleon Hill, mastermind groups are becoming more mainstream.
You are more likely to reach your goals, and at a faster pace, being part of a mastermind group than you are alone. Take the time to determine your goals, choose like minded people you trust and that have a willingness to participate, then take the next step to developing the group. The payoff will be well worth the time and energy committed to this unique opportunity.
Activity: If were ready to join a mastermind group, what would your primary goal be? Personal or business? Think of people that you know that have been a support for you, whether family, teachers, friends or associates. Consider how these people supported you. A mastermind group can be as small as two people. When forming one it is best to have an even number of members for balance.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the expert(s): Loren Fogelman, the success expert, shows you how to master the mindset to grow your business with confidence. Now is the time to easily get past the hurdles about marketing your business and have clients be attracted to you.
Receive Loren’s popular FREE "Tapping Into Emotional Freedom" available at: => http://mindsetformarketingsuccess.com
I am always looking for solutions. The concept of the mastermind group is vividly described by Napoleon Hill in "Think and Grow Rich". Consider the people in your life that are supportive of you. Identify the people willing to give you honest feedback and genuinely want the best for you. Who are the mentors, close friends or professional associates that you trust?
You might already have a support system, people you turn to for advice and to confide in. Do you have a network of people you speak with about aspects of your life? The mastermind group will give you accountability and support on the goal that you are working toward. Napoleon Hill defined the "Master Mind" as "coordination of knowledge and effort, in a spirit of harmony, between two or more people, for the attainment of a definite purpose".
Think about the direction you are heading toward, are your goals primarily personal or professional? This affects the type of people chosen to be in your group. The most successful people realize they do not have all of the answers and look to others for guidance and insight as they work toward specific goals.
The next aspect to consider is the purpose of the mastermind group. One type of mastermind group is solely designed to help you reach your goals. A second alternative is to have the people on the group working toward the same goal or project. The other option is to have a group of people that each have goals and they use the group for support in reaching their individual goals. Napoleon Hill states "No two minds ever come together without thereby creating a third, invisible intangible force, which may be likened to a third mind [the master mind]." The benefit of working toward goals, no matter which type of group you choose, is the insight and accountability you receive from the other members of the group.
Three key tips increase the success of the mastermind group include specific goals for each group member, trusting the group members and having ground rules.
1. Have a common goal and meaning for the group. The mastermind group's purpose is to advise as a way to help each group member reach peak potential. The bonus is getting a group of people with differing perspectives. Each member is a necessary part of the group offering insights that could help you reach your goals sooner than if you were just working on your own. Each person's unique experience and perspective will propel you toward attaining your goals at a faster pace than working toward your goal alone.
2. Trusting the other group members is necessary in a mastermind group. The group offers accountability and support. Harmony will develop as the group forms and each person is committed to work toward their goal as well as being a support for the other members of the mastermind group. Because each person is working toward their own goal as they support the other members of the group, this creates an incentive to be fully vested in the group. Creating a safe and healthy group dynamic is necessary for it to function effectively.
3. Developing ground rules that are agreed to by all group members clarifies expectations. Although many mastermind groups are lay-led without a facilitator, developing norms helps to build trust and commitment. Another option is having a leader who will facilitate the discussion and coordinate the group.
Mastermind groups can take many different forms. Some of these include King Arthur's Round Table and his advisers, a council, board of directors and support group meetings. As a result of Napoleon Hill, mastermind groups are becoming more mainstream.
You are more likely to reach your goals, and at a faster pace, being part of a mastermind group than you are alone. Take the time to determine your goals, choose like minded people you trust and that have a willingness to participate, then take the next step to developing the group. The payoff will be well worth the time and energy committed to this unique opportunity.
Activity: If were ready to join a mastermind group, what would your primary goal be? Personal or business? Think of people that you know that have been a support for you, whether family, teachers, friends or associates. Consider how these people supported you. A mastermind group can be as small as two people. When forming one it is best to have an even number of members for balance.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the expert(s): Loren Fogelman, the success expert, shows you how to master the mindset to grow your business with confidence. Now is the time to easily get past the hurdles about marketing your business and have clients be attracted to you.
Receive Loren’s popular FREE "Tapping Into Emotional Freedom" available at: => http://mindsetformarketingsuccess.com
Forgotten, but Powerful Business Strategy
Have you ever wonder what a mastermind group is and what makes it hold so much appeal for successful people? Dr. Napoleon Hill, most renowned for his classic "Think and Grow Rich", defines a mastermind group as "an alliance of two or more minds blended in a spirit of perfect harmony and co-operating for the attainment of a definite purpose".
In Dr Hill's book, he came to the conclusion that a group of like- minded, achievement-oriented individuals dramatically leveraging upon one another's strength provided the crucial platform for their collective success. This finding is based upon the research and analysis behind the achievements of no less than 500 of the most successful people in America, in a glittering list that includes Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
This is due to the fact that having a mastermind group allows one to tap into the power and wisdom of many, and put in place a support group to assist all in attaining personal and professional goals. This is in stark contrast with the individual who cuts a lonely figure struggling to build and shape an entire business by himself.
How can business Mastermind groups benefit you?
“Me” no longer exists in a Mastermind group, it’s harnessing the power of “We” that is intriguing. Imagine have a Mastermind group of people that are fighting with you in the same trenches or people who have been that, done that! And you given access by them to this unique brain trust, so as to speak, to generate support and understanding and ultimately solutions from these people, allowing you to dismiss that temporary setback as an insignificant blot on your otherwise impressive CV in future...
How does that sound? A mastermind group does exactly that for you! You are able to leverage upon the skills, knowledge, experiences, ideas and abilities of others as though they were your own and in the process, create a synergy within your group and a precious compilation of thoughts which would otherwise possibly never be generated.
The benefits of being in a mastermind group are bountiful. It provides you with marketing contacts, sales referrals, and information about new business opportunities, as well as advice on how to improve the way your business is run. However, it’s important that you realized that referrals and leads exchange is just a small part of what a Mastermind group does.
Being involved in a mastermind group also calls for accountability. There can be no excuses not to get things done as you are not only answerable to yourself, but to your other group members as well.
Once you have accrued the long-term benefits such as being able to sustain your business and being able to build lasting and deep friendships with the other members of your mastermind group, you can expect unbiased and non-judgmental advice from them, and over time, they will grow to become your most trusted business associates upon whose shoulders could be relied on should you run into any sort of trouble in future.
To be able to reach that stage though, you have to first learn to give and share, objectively. Sharing allows you to process things better in your brain as you are talking to a group of people who genuinely care and this allows you clarity of thought so as to be able to set more definite and realistic goals. To benefit the most from a Mastermind group, follow the credo- Givers Gain!
Finally, should you reach this stage, you can even rely on members of your mastermind group, people whom you trust, to help regulate your business and serve as a layer of protection against external threats.
Copyrights © 2006
Alex Cheong @ http://www.mastermind-your-way-to-success.com
Mastermind Group Hub All Rights Reserved. The contents of this article may be copied, reproduced or freely distributed for all non- profit purpose without the consent of the author as long as the author’s name, copyright notice and contact information are included.
In Dr Hill's book, he came to the conclusion that a group of like- minded, achievement-oriented individuals dramatically leveraging upon one another's strength provided the crucial platform for their collective success. This finding is based upon the research and analysis behind the achievements of no less than 500 of the most successful people in America, in a glittering list that includes Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
This is due to the fact that having a mastermind group allows one to tap into the power and wisdom of many, and put in place a support group to assist all in attaining personal and professional goals. This is in stark contrast with the individual who cuts a lonely figure struggling to build and shape an entire business by himself.
How can business Mastermind groups benefit you?
“Me” no longer exists in a Mastermind group, it’s harnessing the power of “We” that is intriguing. Imagine have a Mastermind group of people that are fighting with you in the same trenches or people who have been that, done that! And you given access by them to this unique brain trust, so as to speak, to generate support and understanding and ultimately solutions from these people, allowing you to dismiss that temporary setback as an insignificant blot on your otherwise impressive CV in future...
How does that sound? A mastermind group does exactly that for you! You are able to leverage upon the skills, knowledge, experiences, ideas and abilities of others as though they were your own and in the process, create a synergy within your group and a precious compilation of thoughts which would otherwise possibly never be generated.
The benefits of being in a mastermind group are bountiful. It provides you with marketing contacts, sales referrals, and information about new business opportunities, as well as advice on how to improve the way your business is run. However, it’s important that you realized that referrals and leads exchange is just a small part of what a Mastermind group does.
Being involved in a mastermind group also calls for accountability. There can be no excuses not to get things done as you are not only answerable to yourself, but to your other group members as well.
Once you have accrued the long-term benefits such as being able to sustain your business and being able to build lasting and deep friendships with the other members of your mastermind group, you can expect unbiased and non-judgmental advice from them, and over time, they will grow to become your most trusted business associates upon whose shoulders could be relied on should you run into any sort of trouble in future.
To be able to reach that stage though, you have to first learn to give and share, objectively. Sharing allows you to process things better in your brain as you are talking to a group of people who genuinely care and this allows you clarity of thought so as to be able to set more definite and realistic goals. To benefit the most from a Mastermind group, follow the credo- Givers Gain!
Finally, should you reach this stage, you can even rely on members of your mastermind group, people whom you trust, to help regulate your business and serve as a layer of protection against external threats.
Copyrights © 2006
Alex Cheong @ http://www.mastermind-your-way-to-success.com
Mastermind Group Hub All Rights Reserved. The contents of this article may be copied, reproduced or freely distributed for all non- profit purpose without the consent of the author as long as the author’s name, copyright notice and contact information are included.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Keys to Achieving Success With Your Mastermind Group
As humans we are programmed to imitate others. It has been said that we are the product of the 5 closest people to us. If you study any successful person you will find invariably that they have been associated with other success-minded individuals who assisted them to reach their goals - it is worth noting that the two richest men in the world: Bill Gates and Warren Buffet are close friends.
It follows that if you wish to achieve success in any discipline that you should surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share the same goals as yourself. Napoleon Hill, one of the foremost authors on success and acquiring riches defined some important rules regarding creating your mastermind - we will go over the most important.
1. Make sure each member of your mastermind has a Definite Major Purpose:
A definite major purpose is considered the most important aspect of creating success. It starts with a clear goal or vision of what you want to achieve. Each member of your mastermind must share this same vision so that every member will be working in harmony.
2. Expect to give as well as receive
Each member of the group should expect to give as well as be rewarded. This may be financial but could take on other forms of value as appropriate.
3. Ensure you have no "bad apples" in your group
Your group should consist of positive like-minded individuals any "bad apples" will bring down other members in the group and your overall achievement.
4. Ensure Harmony is maintained:
It is your job to make sure that your group is in harmony and alignment with its definite major purpose. By maintaining harmony the best decisions, actions and creations will flow from your mastermind group naturally.
The first step to creating your mastermind group is to clearly define your vision or purpose and then seek out individuals who will be able to assist you. Make use of the internet and phone to create your group - in the modern age you don't have to be in the same location.
To find out how you can join a mastermind group in the home based business world and pickup a free copy of The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles visit my site at http://www.3stephomeincome.com.
Find out how you can increase your levels of achievement and success at www.3stephomeincome.com and evaluate a lucrative home business in personal development. Free resources available!
It follows that if you wish to achieve success in any discipline that you should surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share the same goals as yourself. Napoleon Hill, one of the foremost authors on success and acquiring riches defined some important rules regarding creating your mastermind - we will go over the most important.
1. Make sure each member of your mastermind has a Definite Major Purpose:
A definite major purpose is considered the most important aspect of creating success. It starts with a clear goal or vision of what you want to achieve. Each member of your mastermind must share this same vision so that every member will be working in harmony.
2. Expect to give as well as receive
Each member of the group should expect to give as well as be rewarded. This may be financial but could take on other forms of value as appropriate.
3. Ensure you have no "bad apples" in your group
Your group should consist of positive like-minded individuals any "bad apples" will bring down other members in the group and your overall achievement.
4. Ensure Harmony is maintained:
It is your job to make sure that your group is in harmony and alignment with its definite major purpose. By maintaining harmony the best decisions, actions and creations will flow from your mastermind group naturally.
The first step to creating your mastermind group is to clearly define your vision or purpose and then seek out individuals who will be able to assist you. Make use of the internet and phone to create your group - in the modern age you don't have to be in the same location.
To find out how you can join a mastermind group in the home based business world and pickup a free copy of The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles visit my site at http://www.3stephomeincome.com.
Find out how you can increase your levels of achievement and success at www.3stephomeincome.com and evaluate a lucrative home business in personal development. Free resources available!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Why You Need a Mastermind
All large corporations have a Board of Directors to be sure the company stays true to their mission, hits their numbers and fulfills their responsibility to stockholders. Small businesses (even sole-proprietorships) need them too. But usually, only those small businesses who accept private funding (from banks, angel investors, venture capitalists) have outsiders on their Board of Directors. A professional Board of Directors may not always create a happy, supportive, safe environment for business owners to turn to for problem solving, brainstorming, or even feedback.
On the other hand, we all need a sounding board, experts on our side, and a safe haven in which to ask for and receive help and advice. Every small business owner, CEO, or entrepreneur (in my opinion) must have a Board of Advisors. The easiest and fastest way to put one together is to join/create a Mastermind Group where each member gets and gives equal doses of advice from the group. I wanted to share with you my top ten reasons why you need one.
1. In a Mastermind Group the agenda belongs to the group and each person's participation is key. Peers give each other feedback, help each other brainstorm new possibilities, and set up accountability structures that keep each other focused and on track. They create a community of supportive colleagues who will brainstorm together to move each member of the group to new heights.
2. Each member gains tremendous insight, which can improve their business and personal life. A Mastermind Group is a powerful influence and resource.
3. The group is a golden opportunity to interact and collaborate with likeminded people you trust in a non-competitive environment.
4. Be part of a distinct community - a tribe. It is an instant and valuable professional support network. You get to team up with people who are better than you at some area of business or experience - people you can learn from.
5. You will find and attract people who can help and support you - good match for the long term growth and success of your business.
6. It helps you establish a strong personal foundation and see beyond what you can see yourself.
7. Share business models with each other and brainstorm with people who are already on the same wavelength. You get a sense of shared endeavor - that there are others out there!
8. You can walk away with a gem/perspective changed from each meeting - there's no wasted time or energy.
9. Experience, skill and confidence develop from the Mastermind Groups' support freeing you to take more risks and reach for bigger goals and dreams.
10. The Mastermind Group will help you design your business (and your life) to be the way you want them to be, not as you've been told things should be.
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About the expert(s): Business Accelerator, KERRI SALLS, President of Breakthrough Enterprise, LLC, works with solo-professional achievers: entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, consultants and solo professionals, providing proven systems and strategies to grow and thrive in any economy. Check out http://www.solopreneur-blueprint.com to receive 3 free reports every solopreneur needs: You Too Can Build a Business That Makes You Money as a Consultant or Solopreneur; 100 Tips for Solopreneurs & Consultants To Survive and Grow In a Recession; Plan Time to Plan.
On the other hand, we all need a sounding board, experts on our side, and a safe haven in which to ask for and receive help and advice. Every small business owner, CEO, or entrepreneur (in my opinion) must have a Board of Advisors. The easiest and fastest way to put one together is to join/create a Mastermind Group where each member gets and gives equal doses of advice from the group. I wanted to share with you my top ten reasons why you need one.
1. In a Mastermind Group the agenda belongs to the group and each person's participation is key. Peers give each other feedback, help each other brainstorm new possibilities, and set up accountability structures that keep each other focused and on track. They create a community of supportive colleagues who will brainstorm together to move each member of the group to new heights.
2. Each member gains tremendous insight, which can improve their business and personal life. A Mastermind Group is a powerful influence and resource.
3. The group is a golden opportunity to interact and collaborate with likeminded people you trust in a non-competitive environment.
4. Be part of a distinct community - a tribe. It is an instant and valuable professional support network. You get to team up with people who are better than you at some area of business or experience - people you can learn from.
5. You will find and attract people who can help and support you - good match for the long term growth and success of your business.
6. It helps you establish a strong personal foundation and see beyond what you can see yourself.
7. Share business models with each other and brainstorm with people who are already on the same wavelength. You get a sense of shared endeavor - that there are others out there!
8. You can walk away with a gem/perspective changed from each meeting - there's no wasted time or energy.
9. Experience, skill and confidence develop from the Mastermind Groups' support freeing you to take more risks and reach for bigger goals and dreams.
10. The Mastermind Group will help you design your business (and your life) to be the way you want them to be, not as you've been told things should be.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the expert(s): Business Accelerator, KERRI SALLS, President of Breakthrough Enterprise, LLC, works with solo-professional achievers: entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, consultants and solo professionals, providing proven systems and strategies to grow and thrive in any economy. Check out http://www.solopreneur-blueprint.com to receive 3 free reports every solopreneur needs: You Too Can Build a Business That Makes You Money as a Consultant or Solopreneur; 100 Tips for Solopreneurs & Consultants To Survive and Grow In a Recession; Plan Time to Plan.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Think and Grow Rich - Organized Planning through Masterminding
Napoleon Hill, author of “Think and Grow Rich” stressed the importance of masterminding at two critical phases in his sixth step toward riches. At the onset of our planning we must have mastermind group input. As we implement and adjust our plans we must continue to maintain our relationship with this group.
Most people are ready to grow rich but really have no idea of where to start, much less the processes involved.
Previous steps prior to organized planning include:
•Desire or a burning passion to acquire riches or some other goal.
•Faith that you will obtain you desires.
•Autosuggestion to enable you to build your faith.
•Specialized knowledge as may be required.
•Imagination to conceive the idea which you will use to obtain your riches or goal.
As we progress through the steps toward our goal, we have arrived at the point where our initial desire will be as Mr. Hill described it, “crystallized” into action. This will require planning.
This is not to be confused with our initial plan which contains our goal, expected date to receive our goal, etc. This plan is where we begin to take definite action.
You may ask why you need to have a plan when you know what you want.
Napoleon Hill said it best. “No individual has sufficient experience, education, native ability, and knowledge to insure the accumulation of a great fortune without the cooperation of other people”.
What he is saying is that you will need to jointly plan with your group. The original idea may be your own creation, but the final version and its methods of implementation must be a joint venture.
Masterminding is certainly not a new or unique concept. It is no more than a group of individuals with mastery in various and numerous subjects pertaining to your particular needs, coming together to advise you and critique your plans.
Mr. Hill deemed this step as absolutely essential. Do not neglect it!
How to form a mastermind group:
•Research and seek out people who may assist you with your plans.
•Form an alliance with as many people as you need to create and help you carry out your plan or plans.
•As you form the alliance, decide what service you will render in exchange for their alliance. This may be money or a service.
•Arrange to meet with this group as often weekly as is necessary to create and implement your plan.
•Establish and maintain a harmonious relationship among all members. This again is an absolute essential.
The advantages of a mastermind group:
•Allows you, with the help of the group, to formulate plans that to the best of everyone’s collective knowledge are sound and faultless.
•Enables you to “fall back and regroup” if your plan does not work and you have to make adjustments or new plans.
Your ideas may indeed be sound, however your plans may not be and therefore you
don’t achieve what you desire. This is where most simply give up. Most people give up on the idea rather than press on until they find the successful plan.
As Mr. Hill illustrates in his text, Thomas Edison experienced ten thousand “temporary defeats” before he perfected the incandescent light bulb. Yes, ten thousand!
If you really having a burning desire for riches, you will need a fiery persistence to build and if need be rebuild your plans, never admitting final defeat.
“No man is ever whipped, unless he quits in his own mind”, Napoleon Hill, “Think and Grow Rich”.
My name is Gerrald Hendrix (Jerry). I am an internet entrepreneur marketing wealth creation, education and management products and services. I am one of a team of marketers teaching others how to be successful in challenging times. See what we do and how your life can be changed forever.
To learn more about me please visit: http://gerraldhendrixblog.com/
http://www.betternetworker.com/articles/view/personal-development/think-and-grow-rich-organized-planning-through-masterminding
Most people are ready to grow rich but really have no idea of where to start, much less the processes involved.
Previous steps prior to organized planning include:
•Desire or a burning passion to acquire riches or some other goal.
•Faith that you will obtain you desires.
•Autosuggestion to enable you to build your faith.
•Specialized knowledge as may be required.
•Imagination to conceive the idea which you will use to obtain your riches or goal.
As we progress through the steps toward our goal, we have arrived at the point where our initial desire will be as Mr. Hill described it, “crystallized” into action. This will require planning.
This is not to be confused with our initial plan which contains our goal, expected date to receive our goal, etc. This plan is where we begin to take definite action.
You may ask why you need to have a plan when you know what you want.
Napoleon Hill said it best. “No individual has sufficient experience, education, native ability, and knowledge to insure the accumulation of a great fortune without the cooperation of other people”.
What he is saying is that you will need to jointly plan with your group. The original idea may be your own creation, but the final version and its methods of implementation must be a joint venture.
Masterminding is certainly not a new or unique concept. It is no more than a group of individuals with mastery in various and numerous subjects pertaining to your particular needs, coming together to advise you and critique your plans.
Mr. Hill deemed this step as absolutely essential. Do not neglect it!
How to form a mastermind group:
•Research and seek out people who may assist you with your plans.
•Form an alliance with as many people as you need to create and help you carry out your plan or plans.
•As you form the alliance, decide what service you will render in exchange for their alliance. This may be money or a service.
•Arrange to meet with this group as often weekly as is necessary to create and implement your plan.
•Establish and maintain a harmonious relationship among all members. This again is an absolute essential.
The advantages of a mastermind group:
•Allows you, with the help of the group, to formulate plans that to the best of everyone’s collective knowledge are sound and faultless.
•Enables you to “fall back and regroup” if your plan does not work and you have to make adjustments or new plans.
Your ideas may indeed be sound, however your plans may not be and therefore you
don’t achieve what you desire. This is where most simply give up. Most people give up on the idea rather than press on until they find the successful plan.
As Mr. Hill illustrates in his text, Thomas Edison experienced ten thousand “temporary defeats” before he perfected the incandescent light bulb. Yes, ten thousand!
If you really having a burning desire for riches, you will need a fiery persistence to build and if need be rebuild your plans, never admitting final defeat.
“No man is ever whipped, unless he quits in his own mind”, Napoleon Hill, “Think and Grow Rich”.
My name is Gerrald Hendrix (Jerry). I am an internet entrepreneur marketing wealth creation, education and management products and services. I am one of a team of marketers teaching others how to be successful in challenging times. See what we do and how your life can be changed forever.
To learn more about me please visit: http://gerraldhendrixblog.com/
http://www.betternetworker.com/articles/view/personal-development/think-and-grow-rich-organized-planning-through-masterminding
The ‘4 Shining White Armored Knights’ of a Mastermind Group That Most People Are Kept In The Dark
When you hear the words ‘Mastermind group’, what comes first into your mind? Do you picture Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone “collaborating” in the Winter Estates? Or perhaps Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield in the midst of promoting their best-seller ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’?
If you are, you are on the right track. Mastermind group is not a game nor is it sinister. Successful people have always leveraged on a Mastermind group to achieve paranormal success. And this is due to the ‘4 Shining White Armored Knights’ of a Mastermind group.
Mastermind group levels the playing field.
The business battle field is never equal. You got to be keenly competitive to start and build a thriving business. And this requires you to develop your core expertise but at the same time, develop multiple skills and knowledge databases. Mastermind group empowers you to do so with much more ease. A meeting of minds from a diversified field of expertise adds perspective, depth, experience and knowledge to the person being masterminded. The only requirement is that you have to be receptive, and become a dry and thirsty sponge ready to absorb the input. Leave the analysis to a later time. Do this and you can level the playing field in a much shorter time.
Mastermind group promotes individual and team excellence.
Excellence is a product of habitual good practice. The regularity of meetings and constructive feedback is important in establishing habits. Members catch the habit of constantly assessing themselves for their strengths and areas for improvement that they themselves perceive what knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to acquire to attain team goals. In the process, they attain individually excellence as well. An example is in the case of a musical orchestra: each member plays a different instrument. In order to achieve harmony of music from the different instrument, members will polish their part in the piece, aside from practicing as an ensemble. Consequently, they improve individually as an instrument player.
Mastermind group develops high commitment to common goals.
A Mastermind group balances the attainment of immediate targets with long-term goals towards the vision of an organization. As mentioned earlier, with the alignment of personal goals with organizational or team goals, personal interests are kept in check. By constantly communicating the vision through formal and informal conversations, the members are inspired and motivated. Setting short-term team goals aligned with organizational goals; and making an action plan to attain these goals can help sustain the increased motivation and commitment to common goals of the members.
Mastermind group produces valuable leaders.
Leadership by example is important in a Mastermind group. A leader loses credibility when he cannot practice what he preaches. This means that a leader should be well organized, highly competent is his field, communicates openly and encourages feedback, and has a clear idea of the organization’s vision-mission-goals. By vicarious and purposive learning, members catch the same good practices and attitudes from the leader, turning them into coaching leaders themselves. If a member experiences good leadership, he is most likely to do the same things when entrusted with formal leadership roles.
Walt Disney once said, “Many hands, hearts, and minds generally contribute to anyone’s notable achievements.” As a business owner, you have to leverage. The inability to leverage will mean less profit and in the worst case scenario, it will spell doom to your business. Make the commitment to learn the art of leverage through a Mastermind group and frog leap your business to the next level!
About the Author
Joel Chue
Expert Author in the topic Mastermind groups
A Free 24 page Report Shows You How
Copyrights © 2006
Joel Chue @ http://www.mastermind-your-way-to-success.com
If you are, you are on the right track. Mastermind group is not a game nor is it sinister. Successful people have always leveraged on a Mastermind group to achieve paranormal success. And this is due to the ‘4 Shining White Armored Knights’ of a Mastermind group.
Mastermind group levels the playing field.
The business battle field is never equal. You got to be keenly competitive to start and build a thriving business. And this requires you to develop your core expertise but at the same time, develop multiple skills and knowledge databases. Mastermind group empowers you to do so with much more ease. A meeting of minds from a diversified field of expertise adds perspective, depth, experience and knowledge to the person being masterminded. The only requirement is that you have to be receptive, and become a dry and thirsty sponge ready to absorb the input. Leave the analysis to a later time. Do this and you can level the playing field in a much shorter time.
Mastermind group promotes individual and team excellence.
Excellence is a product of habitual good practice. The regularity of meetings and constructive feedback is important in establishing habits. Members catch the habit of constantly assessing themselves for their strengths and areas for improvement that they themselves perceive what knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to acquire to attain team goals. In the process, they attain individually excellence as well. An example is in the case of a musical orchestra: each member plays a different instrument. In order to achieve harmony of music from the different instrument, members will polish their part in the piece, aside from practicing as an ensemble. Consequently, they improve individually as an instrument player.
Mastermind group develops high commitment to common goals.
A Mastermind group balances the attainment of immediate targets with long-term goals towards the vision of an organization. As mentioned earlier, with the alignment of personal goals with organizational or team goals, personal interests are kept in check. By constantly communicating the vision through formal and informal conversations, the members are inspired and motivated. Setting short-term team goals aligned with organizational goals; and making an action plan to attain these goals can help sustain the increased motivation and commitment to common goals of the members.
Mastermind group produces valuable leaders.
Leadership by example is important in a Mastermind group. A leader loses credibility when he cannot practice what he preaches. This means that a leader should be well organized, highly competent is his field, communicates openly and encourages feedback, and has a clear idea of the organization’s vision-mission-goals. By vicarious and purposive learning, members catch the same good practices and attitudes from the leader, turning them into coaching leaders themselves. If a member experiences good leadership, he is most likely to do the same things when entrusted with formal leadership roles.
Walt Disney once said, “Many hands, hearts, and minds generally contribute to anyone’s notable achievements.” As a business owner, you have to leverage. The inability to leverage will mean less profit and in the worst case scenario, it will spell doom to your business. Make the commitment to learn the art of leverage through a Mastermind group and frog leap your business to the next level!
About the Author
Joel Chue
Expert Author in the topic Mastermind groups
A Free 24 page Report Shows You How
Copyrights © 2006
Joel Chue @ http://www.mastermind-your-way-to-success.com
Goal Determination and Mastermind Groups
Some people who when dealing with personal development & positive affirmations may think that goals have a definite timeline to accomplish. In part this is really correct but there are certainly methods on how you can speed up the process. You are able to achieve more special things by focusing on the current job and getting it done the best that they can. Let’s take a look at guidelines from the self development experts that you can use yourself in line with the secret movie.
Part i: Forming a Team – Things can be done more rapidly if you make use of other individuals and give things to do in turn as they will have other skills that may include expertise with self esteem. When forming a mastermind group, it is important that you find people whom you can rely on and are actually competent in the areas you give them to do. Mastermind Groups need to be supervised to make sure that you get the results you want. You can also create a hierarchy or create pairs so that one can look out for the other, and will save you time when looking over tasks and therefore making use of specific hypnosis techniques skills.
Creating a Mastermind Group gives you the benefit of developing your leadership skills and making use of the various other skills such as self determination. You will find that later on, you also get to complete jobs more rapidly alone, since you’ve already developed a system that works that will provide a smoother flow of various jobs. Make sure you also get the right number of people for the job or else you risk having a great deal to take care of, wasting precious time in the process.
The personal development field is vast and covers several topics such as yoga for beginners which one should be aware of, this leads us on to …
Part 2: Finding Shortcuts – Some goals actually have Quicker ways that you can make use of to get to more quickly. These are not rapid fixes, but can assist the complete system respond in a more conducive manner, thereby boosting the process. For example there are no short cuts to permanent losing of weight, but you can use various methods that will speed up the losing of weight. Some of the methods include using HIIT, as opposed to the traditional CV exercise. HIIT is done only in 20 minutes tops & gets rid of extra fat and raises your metabolism higher and for longer periods of time.
We have covered goal setting along with the compass movie, self hypnosis & yoga for beginners and it is up to the individual to move closer to their goals in as efficient a time as possible.
http://my-article-directory.com/2009/10/28/goal-determination-mastermind-groups-goal-setting/
Part i: Forming a Team – Things can be done more rapidly if you make use of other individuals and give things to do in turn as they will have other skills that may include expertise with self esteem. When forming a mastermind group, it is important that you find people whom you can rely on and are actually competent in the areas you give them to do. Mastermind Groups need to be supervised to make sure that you get the results you want. You can also create a hierarchy or create pairs so that one can look out for the other, and will save you time when looking over tasks and therefore making use of specific hypnosis techniques skills.
Creating a Mastermind Group gives you the benefit of developing your leadership skills and making use of the various other skills such as self determination. You will find that later on, you also get to complete jobs more rapidly alone, since you’ve already developed a system that works that will provide a smoother flow of various jobs. Make sure you also get the right number of people for the job or else you risk having a great deal to take care of, wasting precious time in the process.
The personal development field is vast and covers several topics such as yoga for beginners which one should be aware of, this leads us on to …
Part 2: Finding Shortcuts – Some goals actually have Quicker ways that you can make use of to get to more quickly. These are not rapid fixes, but can assist the complete system respond in a more conducive manner, thereby boosting the process. For example there are no short cuts to permanent losing of weight, but you can use various methods that will speed up the losing of weight. Some of the methods include using HIIT, as opposed to the traditional CV exercise. HIIT is done only in 20 minutes tops & gets rid of extra fat and raises your metabolism higher and for longer periods of time.
We have covered goal setting along with the compass movie, self hypnosis & yoga for beginners and it is up to the individual to move closer to their goals in as efficient a time as possible.
http://my-article-directory.com/2009/10/28/goal-determination-mastermind-groups-goal-setting/
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Mastermind as a List Building Resource
When I mention social networking, most of you probably think of Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and a dozen other popular websites. But what I am talking about in this article is actual social networking in real life--specifically Mastermind Groups.
Mastermind groups were an invention by Napoleon Hill in his wonderful life changing book Think and Grow Rich. He theorized in pre-Internet days that groups of like minded people need to come together to share knowledge on wealth building and marketing techniques. He envisioned groups all over the world who would congregate in different areas and then once a year they would all get together for a big meeting. He makes it all sound like a marketing "secret society" and was actually on to something brilliant: list building.
Not only is this a great way to build your opt-in list but also creates a forum to share ideas with fellow marketers in your niche and forge long lasting friendships. By getting together in real life, you help each other push your businesses forward to the next level. The idea of the group is that multiple people working in the same niche will be able to figure out problems and generate better ideas as one Master Mind rather than on their own.
These groups are not easy to find but trust me, it will be worth the time and effort once you find a good one. They can be life and business changing. If you can't find one nearby you can always start one.
There are two main places you can look for publicly advertised mastermind groups. The best one I think is the mastermind events sub forum on Warrior Forums. If that turns up nothing in your niche, then I would also check meetup.com and see what is there. Warrior Forum mastermind groups are going to be mainly IM related but meetup groups vary and you could find groups from any niche.
Some mastermind groups have requirements before you can join them. Others you will need to pay to be involved. Some Internet marketers speaking at seminars will offer paid memberships to their mastermind group exclusively to people at the seminar. Just keep in mind all the factors, like time commitment and money exchange, before you decide to join a paid group.
Mastermind groups are one of the best ways to share info related to your niche and also to build traffic to your squeeze page resulting in a successful list. You can network at mastermind groups and greatly increase your online business. I hope you find a mastermind group that appeals to you. You will not be let down and all the effort will be worth it. The rewards are countless.
Whether you are trying to survive failed businesses, botched partnerships, heavy credit card debt, or bankruptcy, Matt Bacak offers firsthand knowledge on overcoming the hardships of a business. As an accomplished and established Internet millionaire and best-selling author, you might be surprised to learn just how much his startup business was like yours a few years ago.
For the most up-to-date information on List Building, learn more here-->
http://www.internetmarketingdirt.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Bacak
Mastermind groups were an invention by Napoleon Hill in his wonderful life changing book Think and Grow Rich. He theorized in pre-Internet days that groups of like minded people need to come together to share knowledge on wealth building and marketing techniques. He envisioned groups all over the world who would congregate in different areas and then once a year they would all get together for a big meeting. He makes it all sound like a marketing "secret society" and was actually on to something brilliant: list building.
Not only is this a great way to build your opt-in list but also creates a forum to share ideas with fellow marketers in your niche and forge long lasting friendships. By getting together in real life, you help each other push your businesses forward to the next level. The idea of the group is that multiple people working in the same niche will be able to figure out problems and generate better ideas as one Master Mind rather than on their own.
These groups are not easy to find but trust me, it will be worth the time and effort once you find a good one. They can be life and business changing. If you can't find one nearby you can always start one.
There are two main places you can look for publicly advertised mastermind groups. The best one I think is the mastermind events sub forum on Warrior Forums. If that turns up nothing in your niche, then I would also check meetup.com and see what is there. Warrior Forum mastermind groups are going to be mainly IM related but meetup groups vary and you could find groups from any niche.
Some mastermind groups have requirements before you can join them. Others you will need to pay to be involved. Some Internet marketers speaking at seminars will offer paid memberships to their mastermind group exclusively to people at the seminar. Just keep in mind all the factors, like time commitment and money exchange, before you decide to join a paid group.
Mastermind groups are one of the best ways to share info related to your niche and also to build traffic to your squeeze page resulting in a successful list. You can network at mastermind groups and greatly increase your online business. I hope you find a mastermind group that appeals to you. You will not be let down and all the effort will be worth it. The rewards are countless.
Whether you are trying to survive failed businesses, botched partnerships, heavy credit card debt, or bankruptcy, Matt Bacak offers firsthand knowledge on overcoming the hardships of a business. As an accomplished and established Internet millionaire and best-selling author, you might be surprised to learn just how much his startup business was like yours a few years ago.
For the most up-to-date information on List Building, learn more here-->
http://www.internetmarketingdirt.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Bacak
Saturday, September 26, 2009
How To Make The Power Of Mastermind Work For The Ordinary You!
It can be quite a daunting prospect trying to form your mastermind group for the first time. You start to wonder where can you find the right people, questions start to be asked, you doubt the practicality of your efforts and eventually a cloud of uncertainty pollutes your mind. Soon enough, you may even drop the whole idea!
To avoid descending into this pitfall, you must learn to make the power of the mastermind work for you, regardless of what you are pursuing.
The identity of a group is paramount to its success. By identity, I refer to the vision as perpetuated by the individual/s who founded the group. A mastermind group cannot achieve its desired results should the members lose focus or deviate from its vision. The vision stems from the reason why the mastermind group is put together in the first place. There must be a purpose, which not only serves the interests of one or two members in the group but that of the entire group. Hence, the challenge would be looking for the kind of people who would benefit from being in your group yet are savvy enough to offer something to your group.
The foundation work done is crucial because you do not want a high turnover rate, when you realise that the members in your group are not quite like what you are looking for. Starting a mastermind group takes a lot of time and energy, and this energy must be reverberated throughout the group so as to bring out the best in the members. Therefore, it is recommended you take your time to source for the most suitable candidates possible for your group.
The next aspect is the selection of members for your group. Members constitute the most important element of any mastermind group. As in any venture, when human relations and emotions are involved, conflicts might arise and along with them, irreparable damage and subsequent split follows. Hence it is important to choose people who do not have a huge ego and think they are above everyone else. No matter how good they may be, these are the sort of people who would bring any group down, even if they might be your friends. In a business-like environment as delicate as this, friendship and past business relationships go out of the window.
The overriding criterion for inclusion is the individual's ability to bring significant knowledge to the group and the willingness to share that knowledge with others. A member must be willing to contribute to the group, be it through his experience, contacts, innovative suggestions or the energy that he offers. However, he must be willing to listen to the opinions of others as well.
Though a leader can be appointed, there is no room for people who refuse to accept the views of others and tend to argue ostensibly. The general code of conduct of members is essential as well. Punctuality and commitment must be forthcoming. Members must share an insatiable thirst in the sourcing of solutions to problems and coupled by the positive outlook, which they are encouraged to adopt, the mastermind group has a good chance for success.
Even after you have your group in place and agreed upon a systematic way of working, conflicts can still occur when members disagree with one another. At this moment, I feel obliged to share with you a case study dating all the way back to January 28, 1986. A space shuttle named "The Challenger" exploded within moments of being launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. During the investigations that followed, it was found that an engineer warned of the dangers of the mission due to the low launch temperatures. However, the senior personnel involved in the launch of the shuttle, worried that the delay in the launch might cause them to lose out in contracts in the future, pressed ahead with the launch, resulting in the catastrophe.
Through this example, it demonstrates the devastating impact on any group should people who are ill make a decision advised and the rest have to follow suit. This applies to your mastermind group. If you are the leader, what would you have done should you sense a great business opportunity and decided to go for the kill, with members of your group urging caution? Or imagine that you belong to a mastermind group and the leader and the other members are in favor of a particular business decision, which you voice strong disapproval to. Do you follow the group's decision due to a majority vote even though you have a feeling that this project is doomed to failure? Would you want to get implicated by the group's decision? Or do you brush aside that sentiment, and allow your group to convince you beyond all reasonable doubt of the project's benefits, just because you do not want to be portrayed as a member who brings a negative vibe to the group? To this, I cannot stress strongly enough the importance of the focus and the unity within the group. It would be best that members of the group share similar traits, have a shared ethical sense and generally display characteristics reminiscent to that you like it to be. This can in some ways alleviate some potential conflicts arising from a clash of personality to a certain extent but not totally. There can be no definite solution for these sorts of problems, as it deals with the sensitive nature of the emotional side of things.
There is not a soul in this world who does anything with the goal of failing. Likewise no one forms a mastermind group with the intention of it failing. While this article is definitely not exhaustive, it is hoped that it does aid in making the power of the mastermind work for you to a certain extent.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1075847/joining_a_mastermind_group_be_careful_pg2.html?cat=35
To avoid descending into this pitfall, you must learn to make the power of the mastermind work for you, regardless of what you are pursuing.
The identity of a group is paramount to its success. By identity, I refer to the vision as perpetuated by the individual/s who founded the group. A mastermind group cannot achieve its desired results should the members lose focus or deviate from its vision. The vision stems from the reason why the mastermind group is put together in the first place. There must be a purpose, which not only serves the interests of one or two members in the group but that of the entire group. Hence, the challenge would be looking for the kind of people who would benefit from being in your group yet are savvy enough to offer something to your group.
The foundation work done is crucial because you do not want a high turnover rate, when you realise that the members in your group are not quite like what you are looking for. Starting a mastermind group takes a lot of time and energy, and this energy must be reverberated throughout the group so as to bring out the best in the members. Therefore, it is recommended you take your time to source for the most suitable candidates possible for your group.
The next aspect is the selection of members for your group. Members constitute the most important element of any mastermind group. As in any venture, when human relations and emotions are involved, conflicts might arise and along with them, irreparable damage and subsequent split follows. Hence it is important to choose people who do not have a huge ego and think they are above everyone else. No matter how good they may be, these are the sort of people who would bring any group down, even if they might be your friends. In a business-like environment as delicate as this, friendship and past business relationships go out of the window.
The overriding criterion for inclusion is the individual's ability to bring significant knowledge to the group and the willingness to share that knowledge with others. A member must be willing to contribute to the group, be it through his experience, contacts, innovative suggestions or the energy that he offers. However, he must be willing to listen to the opinions of others as well.
Though a leader can be appointed, there is no room for people who refuse to accept the views of others and tend to argue ostensibly. The general code of conduct of members is essential as well. Punctuality and commitment must be forthcoming. Members must share an insatiable thirst in the sourcing of solutions to problems and coupled by the positive outlook, which they are encouraged to adopt, the mastermind group has a good chance for success.
Even after you have your group in place and agreed upon a systematic way of working, conflicts can still occur when members disagree with one another. At this moment, I feel obliged to share with you a case study dating all the way back to January 28, 1986. A space shuttle named "The Challenger" exploded within moments of being launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. During the investigations that followed, it was found that an engineer warned of the dangers of the mission due to the low launch temperatures. However, the senior personnel involved in the launch of the shuttle, worried that the delay in the launch might cause them to lose out in contracts in the future, pressed ahead with the launch, resulting in the catastrophe.
Through this example, it demonstrates the devastating impact on any group should people who are ill make a decision advised and the rest have to follow suit. This applies to your mastermind group. If you are the leader, what would you have done should you sense a great business opportunity and decided to go for the kill, with members of your group urging caution? Or imagine that you belong to a mastermind group and the leader and the other members are in favor of a particular business decision, which you voice strong disapproval to. Do you follow the group's decision due to a majority vote even though you have a feeling that this project is doomed to failure? Would you want to get implicated by the group's decision? Or do you brush aside that sentiment, and allow your group to convince you beyond all reasonable doubt of the project's benefits, just because you do not want to be portrayed as a member who brings a negative vibe to the group? To this, I cannot stress strongly enough the importance of the focus and the unity within the group. It would be best that members of the group share similar traits, have a shared ethical sense and generally display characteristics reminiscent to that you like it to be. This can in some ways alleviate some potential conflicts arising from a clash of personality to a certain extent but not totally. There can be no definite solution for these sorts of problems, as it deals with the sensitive nature of the emotional side of things.
There is not a soul in this world who does anything with the goal of failing. Likewise no one forms a mastermind group with the intention of it failing. While this article is definitely not exhaustive, it is hoped that it does aid in making the power of the mastermind work for you to a certain extent.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1075847/joining_a_mastermind_group_be_careful_pg2.html?cat=35
7 Mistakes Masterminds Make
Yes! Joining mastermind groups played a major factor in building my business from zero to six figures in less than two years. However, I also learned that you have to be choosy otherwise you'll throw away thousands of dollars.
Here Are the Top 7 Mistakes Most Mastermind Groups Make:
1. No Quick-Start Guide
As an Internet business entrepreneur looking to build your business, you're already bombarded with "things to do", emails, and promises of multiple ways to grow your business.
Now, add everything that you will get once you join a mastermind group and you will automatically get overwhelmed. Two things will then happen:- You'll quit and your business will stay stagnant.- You'll try everything at once. This will result in NOTHING getting done right and again you will NOT see the results you were expecting.
So make sure the mastermind group you choose has a step-by-step guide of how to best benefit from the group.
2. Lack of Focus
Many mastermind group leaders will throw at you dozens of ideas. But the problem is, most people can only implement one idea at a time. So all the other great, business-changing ideas get forgotten about. That's why in our "Write Your Way to Profits Insiders Circle" we:
- Give NEW article marketing information in "spoon-fed" doses each and every single month.
- Review ONE article writing, article marketing or e-commerce topic at a time in a clear, simple way
3. No mixture of top speakers and underground experts
Yes, you want to hear interviews from TOP Internet marketers and entrepreneurs like Yanik Silver, Tom Antion, Alexandria Brown and many others who have proven their expertise. And, yes I have interviewed Bob Bly (America's Greatest Copywriter) and Robert Skrob (President of the Information Marketing Association) on my tele-classes.
But, most well known names teach the same thing over and over again. They're NOT teaching anything new. That's why, in our mastermind group, we also interview "underground" marketers you may not have heard of.
But they're in the trenches making things happen every single day. And, every one of them has built a 6 and 7 figure business -- their way. We look at their business structure. We review their articles, ezines, websites, and sales pages. And, we pick them apart, so you can see what really WORKS
4. Not Enough Support
Even the best entrepreneurs get stuck. Without proper knowledge and support they lose confidence and stop in their tracks. That's why mastermind owners shouldn't stop at just interviewing successful business owners who use proven strategies and resources that work.
That's why we also give members a NEW product each month that will reveal even more insider secrets so they can get a mile ahead of the competition. It could be a new eBook, special report, checklist, video tutorial, or audio program filled with new secrets not covered before. And, we archive every interview and every product on our membership website so you can access it at any time.
5. No Access After the Mastermind Call
You listened to the expert interviews. You've read the transcripts. You've read all of the mastermind materials. But then you have questions and it's not time for your group mastermind session. Or, maybe your session already passed. Now what? You don't want to wait to get answers to your questions. So make sure unlimited email access is offered, and that you receive emergency-as-you-need-it private coaching calls too!
6. Not holding you accountable
Mastermind groups that truly care about your success will have a system to hold you accountable. This way you stay on track and keep focused no matter how many new ideas pop into your head. And, this way you will be motivated to keep taking the right action to build your business.
7. Failure to Motivate You to Take Immediate ActionIf you don't take action on the ideas you discover, what good is joining the mastermind group? That's why each week we give practical mini-homework assignments that are related to that month's featured product or interview. This gives you the chance to put the newly discovered practical skills to use to grow your business.
I know many entrepreneurs who have wasted thousands of dollars on marketing programs and mastermind groups that got them nowhere. Don't make that mistake. Invest in someone to show you the way - the right way - the first time. Don't know where to start? Join our Write Your Way to Profits Insiders Circle and get the first month free!
Here Are the Top 7 Mistakes Most Mastermind Groups Make:
1. No Quick-Start Guide
As an Internet business entrepreneur looking to build your business, you're already bombarded with "things to do", emails, and promises of multiple ways to grow your business.
Now, add everything that you will get once you join a mastermind group and you will automatically get overwhelmed. Two things will then happen:- You'll quit and your business will stay stagnant.- You'll try everything at once. This will result in NOTHING getting done right and again you will NOT see the results you were expecting.
So make sure the mastermind group you choose has a step-by-step guide of how to best benefit from the group.
2. Lack of Focus
Many mastermind group leaders will throw at you dozens of ideas. But the problem is, most people can only implement one idea at a time. So all the other great, business-changing ideas get forgotten about. That's why in our "Write Your Way to Profits Insiders Circle" we:
- Give NEW article marketing information in "spoon-fed" doses each and every single month.
- Review ONE article writing, article marketing or e-commerce topic at a time in a clear, simple way
3. No mixture of top speakers and underground experts
Yes, you want to hear interviews from TOP Internet marketers and entrepreneurs like Yanik Silver, Tom Antion, Alexandria Brown and many others who have proven their expertise. And, yes I have interviewed Bob Bly (America's Greatest Copywriter) and Robert Skrob (President of the Information Marketing Association) on my tele-classes.
But, most well known names teach the same thing over and over again. They're NOT teaching anything new. That's why, in our mastermind group, we also interview "underground" marketers you may not have heard of.
But they're in the trenches making things happen every single day. And, every one of them has built a 6 and 7 figure business -- their way. We look at their business structure. We review their articles, ezines, websites, and sales pages. And, we pick them apart, so you can see what really WORKS
4. Not Enough Support
Even the best entrepreneurs get stuck. Without proper knowledge and support they lose confidence and stop in their tracks. That's why mastermind owners shouldn't stop at just interviewing successful business owners who use proven strategies and resources that work.
That's why we also give members a NEW product each month that will reveal even more insider secrets so they can get a mile ahead of the competition. It could be a new eBook, special report, checklist, video tutorial, or audio program filled with new secrets not covered before. And, we archive every interview and every product on our membership website so you can access it at any time.
5. No Access After the Mastermind Call
You listened to the expert interviews. You've read the transcripts. You've read all of the mastermind materials. But then you have questions and it's not time for your group mastermind session. Or, maybe your session already passed. Now what? You don't want to wait to get answers to your questions. So make sure unlimited email access is offered, and that you receive emergency-as-you-need-it private coaching calls too!
6. Not holding you accountable
Mastermind groups that truly care about your success will have a system to hold you accountable. This way you stay on track and keep focused no matter how many new ideas pop into your head. And, this way you will be motivated to keep taking the right action to build your business.
7. Failure to Motivate You to Take Immediate ActionIf you don't take action on the ideas you discover, what good is joining the mastermind group? That's why each week we give practical mini-homework assignments that are related to that month's featured product or interview. This gives you the chance to put the newly discovered practical skills to use to grow your business.
I know many entrepreneurs who have wasted thousands of dollars on marketing programs and mastermind groups that got them nowhere. Don't make that mistake. Invest in someone to show you the way - the right way - the first time. Don't know where to start? Join our Write Your Way to Profits Insiders Circle and get the first month free!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Mastermind Article - Questions to Ask Yourself Before Beginning
I’ve been running mastermind groups for 15 years and I’ve seen groups of all sizes. There are some questions you need to ask yourself before deciding how many members should be in your mastermind group:
How much total time is available at each meeting? Meetings need to have a begin and end time, and many meetings that run over 90 minutes can run out of steam without frequent breaks. Yet breaks also cause interruption of the energy levels. So first decide how long each meeting will be, then go on to Question 2.
How much time should each member get to be in the “hot seat” to talk about their problem, challenge or decision? Members need time to first verbalize their situation before masterminding can begin in earnest. Some members are quick and can sum it up in five minutes or less. Others need 10-15 minutes just to set the stage. THEN you need time to mastermind after that. We did an experiment in one of my mastermind group meetings recently: we had a non-timed meeting, just to see what would naturally occur. Thirty minutes per member was our average time for each hot seat.
What other items are on your agenda? Remember that your meeting typically includes some sort of opening and closing, as well as possible guest speakers, training or other events. Allow time for those in your agenda, then plan accordingly.
In my mastermind groups, I tend to look for 4-6 members per group. Less than four and the energy level can drop (though I know several very successful mastermind groups with three members in them!), and more than six members will probably cause you to run out of time. However, if you’re doing half-day or full-day meetings, you may be able to include more members.
For more articles about mastermind groups, visit www.TheSuccessAlliance.com
http://www.passionforbusiness.com/blog/mastermind-group-member-number/
How much total time is available at each meeting? Meetings need to have a begin and end time, and many meetings that run over 90 minutes can run out of steam without frequent breaks. Yet breaks also cause interruption of the energy levels. So first decide how long each meeting will be, then go on to Question 2.
How much time should each member get to be in the “hot seat” to talk about their problem, challenge or decision? Members need time to first verbalize their situation before masterminding can begin in earnest. Some members are quick and can sum it up in five minutes or less. Others need 10-15 minutes just to set the stage. THEN you need time to mastermind after that. We did an experiment in one of my mastermind group meetings recently: we had a non-timed meeting, just to see what would naturally occur. Thirty minutes per member was our average time for each hot seat.
What other items are on your agenda? Remember that your meeting typically includes some sort of opening and closing, as well as possible guest speakers, training or other events. Allow time for those in your agenda, then plan accordingly.
In my mastermind groups, I tend to look for 4-6 members per group. Less than four and the energy level can drop (though I know several very successful mastermind groups with three members in them!), and more than six members will probably cause you to run out of time. However, if you’re doing half-day or full-day meetings, you may be able to include more members.
For more articles about mastermind groups, visit www.TheSuccessAlliance.com
http://www.passionforbusiness.com/blog/mastermind-group-member-number/
Friday, September 4, 2009
7 Ways to Use Your Mastermind
Are you feeling lethargic managing your business? Or perhaps you know that you need to do something in order to drive your business up and on, but do not know where and how to start? Is all that you can see ahead of you a dark, gloomy and never-seem-to-be-ending road?
Well your worries are over! We shall discuss the top 7 ways which you can actually utilize to move ahead with your Mastermind group through collaboration with like-minded people and be that one step closer towards realizing your objectives!
Here is a summary of the top 7 ways.1. Clarity of your Mastermind group's objective. 2. Be positive and encouraging.3. Setting up an accountability structure.4. Building trust and privacy.
5. Asking and receiving help.6. Brainstorm to get an influx of great ideas.7. Contribute to receive more.
Clarity of your Mastermind group's objective. Make it a point to go through in your mind the very objective for the existence of this Mastermind group, and note it down. Your objective serves to concentrate the mind and the focus of your group right. With that the results will follow, otherwise your group could be languishing in mediocrity and not progressing.
Be positive and encouraging. This is done by...the words you use which effectively set the tone for the whole Mastermind meeting. Be positive and encouraging and at the same time show your Mastermind members that you care. While we are ruling out outright flattery here, complimentary words as well as gestures to show the appreciation that you have for your group members will not go unnoticed and will go a long way towards ensuring a harmonious and united mastermind group.
Setting up an accountability structure. Having a system in place is vital to ensuring your group does not stagnate. Many a times the full potential of a Mastermind group is not able to be harnessed due to the small matter of accountability. During the mastermind meeting itself, ideas abound and many suggestions are made but who is to ensure who does what? The person offering the idea might not be willing to get down to sorting out the nitty-gritty of the issue at hand, and responsibilities start to be pushed among members. This causes friction and over the long hauls results in tension brewing among members which will certainly not aid your cause. Hence, have a structure in place to ensure no one shirks responsibility and everyone does his/her part.
Building trust and privacy. The basic ingredient needed for any successful Mastermind group is for members to trust one another. And how do we foster trust within the group, whose members may hail from a diversity of backgrounds? Well, we aim to build lasting relationships over the long run. To do this, there must be complete honesty and absolute clarity in communication among members. This sets the foundation for the group to be taken to a whole new level in terms of the intangible factor that is trust. Oh, and always be prepared to listen to what others have to say, no matter how trivial or seemingly irrelevant that opinion may be. Everyone wants to be heard.
Asking and receiving help. As you work on that, do not forget that you are here in a Mastermind group not only to give but to receive as well. Share any problems that you might have come across since the end of the last meeting as well as any help you would like to receive. Do not be afraid to ask. There is no harm in asking. Failure only occurs when people keep their problems inside of them and do not request for help. Once you have established some form of rapport or other with your group members, you will find that they are more than willing to lend a helping hand.
Brainstorm to get an influx of great ideas. Once you have mustered up the courage to ask for help, expect to have lots of ideas and suggestions from your group members to work with. There will be ideas being bandied about and this is where the real brainstorming starts. Do not judge any suggestion offered by your group members by brandishing them as "impractical" or "not workable". Simply jot all the ideas down and you will soon find that you have a stack of ideas to work with. You can then slowly discard those you feel are not feasible. In this way, there is a higher chance of you solving your problem, when you learn to become less judgmental.
Give before you receive. Everyone has his/her own purpose in joining a Mastermind group. Think about it this way, should everyone give right from the start, then everyone would be receiving in one way or other right? It does not matter who gives first. As long as you are willing to give, you will definitely receive. Translated into reality, this theory can be construed as follows: Should you be willing to help your group members by going the extra mile to ensure that their needs are met, you can be assured that when the time comes to doing the honors for you, your group members will put in the same amount, if not even more effort for you.
Above are the top 7 ways for you to use your Mastermind group to move ahead. If you find that the progress of your group is mired in mediocrity and would like to improve its fortunes, would you like to take on this challenge and use the tips above to inspire your group to scale greater heights and achieve even more success than never before? The choice is yours.
About the Author
Joel Chue and Alex Cheong Expert Authors in the topic Mastermind groups
How Can Ordinary People Leverage a Mastermind Group System to Produce Extraordinary Results Over and Over Again?
A Free 24 page Report Shows You How
Copyrights © 2006 Alex Cheong @ http://www.mastermind-your-way-to-success.com
Well your worries are over! We shall discuss the top 7 ways which you can actually utilize to move ahead with your Mastermind group through collaboration with like-minded people and be that one step closer towards realizing your objectives!
Here is a summary of the top 7 ways.1. Clarity of your Mastermind group's objective. 2. Be positive and encouraging.3. Setting up an accountability structure.4. Building trust and privacy.
5. Asking and receiving help.6. Brainstorm to get an influx of great ideas.7. Contribute to receive more.
Clarity of your Mastermind group's objective. Make it a point to go through in your mind the very objective for the existence of this Mastermind group, and note it down. Your objective serves to concentrate the mind and the focus of your group right. With that the results will follow, otherwise your group could be languishing in mediocrity and not progressing.
Be positive and encouraging. This is done by...the words you use which effectively set the tone for the whole Mastermind meeting. Be positive and encouraging and at the same time show your Mastermind members that you care. While we are ruling out outright flattery here, complimentary words as well as gestures to show the appreciation that you have for your group members will not go unnoticed and will go a long way towards ensuring a harmonious and united mastermind group.
Setting up an accountability structure. Having a system in place is vital to ensuring your group does not stagnate. Many a times the full potential of a Mastermind group is not able to be harnessed due to the small matter of accountability. During the mastermind meeting itself, ideas abound and many suggestions are made but who is to ensure who does what? The person offering the idea might not be willing to get down to sorting out the nitty-gritty of the issue at hand, and responsibilities start to be pushed among members. This causes friction and over the long hauls results in tension brewing among members which will certainly not aid your cause. Hence, have a structure in place to ensure no one shirks responsibility and everyone does his/her part.
Building trust and privacy. The basic ingredient needed for any successful Mastermind group is for members to trust one another. And how do we foster trust within the group, whose members may hail from a diversity of backgrounds? Well, we aim to build lasting relationships over the long run. To do this, there must be complete honesty and absolute clarity in communication among members. This sets the foundation for the group to be taken to a whole new level in terms of the intangible factor that is trust. Oh, and always be prepared to listen to what others have to say, no matter how trivial or seemingly irrelevant that opinion may be. Everyone wants to be heard.
Asking and receiving help. As you work on that, do not forget that you are here in a Mastermind group not only to give but to receive as well. Share any problems that you might have come across since the end of the last meeting as well as any help you would like to receive. Do not be afraid to ask. There is no harm in asking. Failure only occurs when people keep their problems inside of them and do not request for help. Once you have established some form of rapport or other with your group members, you will find that they are more than willing to lend a helping hand.
Brainstorm to get an influx of great ideas. Once you have mustered up the courage to ask for help, expect to have lots of ideas and suggestions from your group members to work with. There will be ideas being bandied about and this is where the real brainstorming starts. Do not judge any suggestion offered by your group members by brandishing them as "impractical" or "not workable". Simply jot all the ideas down and you will soon find that you have a stack of ideas to work with. You can then slowly discard those you feel are not feasible. In this way, there is a higher chance of you solving your problem, when you learn to become less judgmental.
Give before you receive. Everyone has his/her own purpose in joining a Mastermind group. Think about it this way, should everyone give right from the start, then everyone would be receiving in one way or other right? It does not matter who gives first. As long as you are willing to give, you will definitely receive. Translated into reality, this theory can be construed as follows: Should you be willing to help your group members by going the extra mile to ensure that their needs are met, you can be assured that when the time comes to doing the honors for you, your group members will put in the same amount, if not even more effort for you.
Above are the top 7 ways for you to use your Mastermind group to move ahead. If you find that the progress of your group is mired in mediocrity and would like to improve its fortunes, would you like to take on this challenge and use the tips above to inspire your group to scale greater heights and achieve even more success than never before? The choice is yours.
About the Author
Joel Chue and Alex Cheong Expert Authors in the topic Mastermind groups
How Can Ordinary People Leverage a Mastermind Group System to Produce Extraordinary Results Over and Over Again?
A Free 24 page Report Shows You How
Copyrights © 2006 Alex Cheong @ http://www.mastermind-your-way-to-success.com
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Start a Mastermind Alliance
The President of the U.S. has a cabinet and every CEO has a board…you need a mastermind alliance. One important thing a mastermind group will do is cover the blind spots of each member, and to gain unbiased, independent and objective advice. Just find up to seven people who share your goals or have goals similar to yours and recruit them. Find members who have the skills, experience, education and/or contacts that you would find helpful. (Of course, you help your members too.) Look up all the people you have ever known who could help. Have your membership think of other good potential members too.
Get unanimous approval from your membership before you actually invite people to your forum.
After you have found members, go to Yahoo, MSN or MySpace and form a CLOSED Yahoo or MSN or MySpace group. Invite your members to the group and begin work. Keeping records should be extremely easy using any of these group sites. Also, you don’t have to meet at the same time at a physical location or run up phone bills.
Now, what do you do? Decide on your group’s definite major purpose and construct a plan to accomplish it. Give everyone in your group a job. Remember, success is usually cooked in a crock pot, not a microwave. Don’t expect success overnight. Just keep striving towards your common purpose and help each other in a spirit of unity and harmony.
Other things you can do are: review each other’s business plans, resumes, web sites, e-books, share information, brainstorm, send traffic to each others web sites and keep each other motivated. You can put class notes or any relevant data in the files section of the Yahoo or MSN group. The possibilities are unlimited. You can read more about mastermind alliances in Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill.
Get unanimous approval from your membership before you actually invite people to your forum.
After you have found members, go to Yahoo, MSN or MySpace and form a CLOSED Yahoo or MSN or MySpace group. Invite your members to the group and begin work. Keeping records should be extremely easy using any of these group sites. Also, you don’t have to meet at the same time at a physical location or run up phone bills.
Now, what do you do? Decide on your group’s definite major purpose and construct a plan to accomplish it. Give everyone in your group a job. Remember, success is usually cooked in a crock pot, not a microwave. Don’t expect success overnight. Just keep striving towards your common purpose and help each other in a spirit of unity and harmony.
Other things you can do are: review each other’s business plans, resumes, web sites, e-books, share information, brainstorm, send traffic to each others web sites and keep each other motivated. You can put class notes or any relevant data in the files section of the Yahoo or MSN group. The possibilities are unlimited. You can read more about mastermind alliances in Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill.
How to Create a Secret Society
Instructions
Step 1:
Realize first that a secret society cannot be an actual secret. To have membersand meetings, the secret society itself must be public knowledge. The secret of a secret society lies behind the closed doors of the meetings.
Step 2:
Choose the secret of your society. Whether you have a religious relic to guard,an ancient site to protect or simply the formula for eternal life, a secret isessential to the purpose of your organization. Get a good secret to help createa buzz about your group.
Step 3:
Create a buzz about your newly formed secret society. In this modern era, thereare several ways to get people talking and curious about your organization.Utilize the Internet, social networking sites and good old-fashioned word of mouth to let people think they know a secret.
Step 4:
Determine your core membership. Every society needs founding members who are privy to more than the rest of the members. Choose carefully among the most loyal and secretive people you know.
Step 5:
Decide on the complexity of your society's initiation rituals and write them down. Creating a rulebook or society manual is essential to uniformity in practice and consistency in membership. Take your time and proofread carefullybefore handing out to members.
Step 6:
Make the location of your meetings secret or keep a guard on the closed door as you meet. Keeping the details of your organization very secret will help raise interest in your club. Making people want to join your secret society is half the fun of having a secret society.
Step 7:Use puzzles, code words and dead-letter drops to add mystery to your society.
How to Create a Secret Society Provided by eHow.com
http://www.answerbag.com/article_create-secret-society_84699288-9a4e-8695-b896-687fd7164482/
Step 1:
Realize first that a secret society cannot be an actual secret. To have membersand meetings, the secret society itself must be public knowledge. The secret of a secret society lies behind the closed doors of the meetings.
Step 2:
Choose the secret of your society. Whether you have a religious relic to guard,an ancient site to protect or simply the formula for eternal life, a secret isessential to the purpose of your organization. Get a good secret to help createa buzz about your group.
Step 3:
Create a buzz about your newly formed secret society. In this modern era, thereare several ways to get people talking and curious about your organization.Utilize the Internet, social networking sites and good old-fashioned word of mouth to let people think they know a secret.
Step 4:
Determine your core membership. Every society needs founding members who are privy to more than the rest of the members. Choose carefully among the most loyal and secretive people you know.
Step 5:
Decide on the complexity of your society's initiation rituals and write them down. Creating a rulebook or society manual is essential to uniformity in practice and consistency in membership. Take your time and proofread carefullybefore handing out to members.
Step 6:
Make the location of your meetings secret or keep a guard on the closed door as you meet. Keeping the details of your organization very secret will help raise interest in your club. Making people want to join your secret society is half the fun of having a secret society.
Step 7:Use puzzles, code words and dead-letter drops to add mystery to your society.
How to Create a Secret Society Provided by eHow.com
http://www.answerbag.com/article_create-secret-society_84699288-9a4e-8695-b896-687fd7164482/
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