In a constant effort to do more with less, our world seems to become more frenzied every day. Security issues and national politics change rapidly. We have to know more, be more, and do more than ever before. There seems to be no time for planning future personal or career moves, or thinking creatively about business issues.
One avenue that's working well for many people is a master-mind group. Such a group gives us contacts and resources to make planning and goal setting easier. Such a group helps us stay on course when everything seems to be pulling us in different directions. Master mind groups are spawning all over the country, offering support and specialized knowledge to people in every industry and sector.
A master-mind group consists of people who work together in absolute harmony to achieve diverse goals. The group members come together at regular intervals to brainstorm ideas, share knowledge, and help each other discover the tools to realize their dreams. While these people work well together, they may be very different from each other. The common element is that each draws something from the others, and each contributes freely to the group. It is the focusing of each mind on a common issue that triggers thoughts not readily available to one mind. Those in the group draw upon their unique experiences and specialized knowledge to help each other.
When many minds concentrate on a single point, the activity generates a power over and above the sum total of each of the individual minds. It is as though an invisible force joins the group and provides additional insight. As a result, the group members accomplish more than any one person could have accomplished individually.
Forming a master-mind group is relatively simple, but you need to plan carefully. Below are some tips to keep in mind while forming your group.
1. Choose people who are not like you. People with different perspectives will challenge you and contribute different ideas that you may not have thought of. While your master-mind group participants should be different from you, they should also possess some similar qualities - they should be action-oriented, have a high energy level, and have a strong commitment to follow-through. Search your contact list for only those people who share your values and with whom you'd want to meet regularly.
2. Ensure that group members can benefit from the experience, skills, and specialized knowledge of each other. Each person must have something to contribute to others in the group. This can be a specific talent, leads, or specialized knowledge or skills, such as marketing or organizational skills. Some members may choose to present tips or provide information, while others could contribute something as basic as good will and encouraging words. As a result, each person should be able to gain something from the group. The gain may not always be material. It may be increased self-confidence or "know-how." Ultimately, it may be the realization of a dream.
3. Agree on organizational matters, such as leadership, objectives, decisions on when and where to meet, and an established agenda. Group leadership initially rests with the person forming the group. His or her responsibility is to set the meeting time and place until the group decides on a permanent meeting time and place. Leadership of meetings may then rotate, meaning one person leads the session for a month, then the next month someone else leads. With an established process and ground rules, there is no need for an elected or designated leader.
Take the Initiative
Forming a master-mind group is a powerful way to get ideas and support from others. Take the initiative to start your own master-mind group today. You will soon see the wonderful benefits of contributing and receiving ideas, which will propel you and the entire group to new levels of personal and professional success.
Jo Condrill is the author of "How to Form a Master Mind Group," a downloadable 25-page booklet that provides the details. She is also author of "Take Charge of Your Life: Dare to Pursue Your Dreams" and "101 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills Instantly." She provides a unique learning experience in leadership, team building, personal development, and success strategies. She has worked in the corporate, government, and non-profit sectors. http://www.goalminds.com/mastermind_groups.html
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