An Extraordinary Difference

Although this blog is about extraordinary networks, I confess that the phrase “extraordinary networks” is an oxymoron. There is nothing about a “network” that is extraordinary. We may be connected to extraordinary people, know a lot of people, or perhaps just a few incredible people, and none of that necessarily leads to an "extraordinary network."

There is no deception here, just an intention to clarify that a network represents possibilities, extraordinary possibilities... The extraordinary network embodies the art of creating with others to make an extraordinary difference in their lives, and to make an extraordinary difference in your own.

There’s a big difference, and then there’s an Extraordinary Difference.

Many things can make a difference in our lives. Wealth, education, travel, and time are just a few things I often her people say they want more of, in life. Most of us probably believe that having "more of" these things in life will make us richer, smarter, more sophisticated and even happier. Sorry to be Debbie Downer here, some people have all of these things and it doesn’t make a difference, they're still miserable.

Your circumstances won’t necessarily make you extraordinary.

Extraordinary is who you get to be in the face of any circumstance (e.g. wealth, job loss, career, etc.). Being extraordinary occurs as though you've got it all, even when you don't. Is extraordinary is who you are when you take actions and produce results regardless of your circumstances.

An extraordinary difference is created from the impact you have on life. It’s a contribution to another human being. It's the value you choose to bring, just because you can.

Most people don’t see themselves as extraordinary, and yet each and every one of us has the unique and remarkable capacity to make a difference for another human being.

Making An Extraordinary Difference

Making an extraordinary difference is about who you choose to be in very ordinary moments.

Imagine being inspired, not because someone is inspiring you but because you know what is to be someone who inspires another. We've all done it. There is someone in your life, right at this moment who looks up to you, is inspired by you, wants to be like you.

An extraordinary network happens in the ordinary moments when you allow others to see how extraordinary you really are.

Rule for the Week: Relationships require someone extraordinary - be that someone!

2010. A Year of Resolutions Fulfilled!

We stand at the start of a new year, the beginning of a new decade, a unique moment of creation for all that we aspire. Our lives are filled with the promise and possibility of declarations for the New Year. Whether newly inspired or the resurrected dreams of the past, our resolutions breathe with intentionality and purpose. Our declarations are alive and free, unburdened by the past and gleaming with potential.

The Economic Times states, “while statistics show that more women (74% women versus 58% men) make New Year resolutions and more men (22% men against 14% women) are likely to actually keep them, experts say that people fail because they make the wrong resolutions.” The article continues with suggestions on how to remain resolute about your New Year’s resolution. Another article indicated that less than half of the resolutions made at the start of the New Year are still in existence after six months.

While much is written about the New Year’s resolution, there is little offered to help us transform the potential of our resolutions into reality. So here’s my take on how to improve your chances of fulfilling on your resolutions in 2010.

Share your resolutions with others.

There is an enthusiasm and energy in the first days of a new year that infuses our actions and ideas. As days pass, the vitality of our intention begins to wane and the courage and commitment to accomplish our resolution diminishes.

Share your resolutions with others and let them know what you’re up to. Involve people you trust as partners to your intended success. A partner or multiple “resolution partners” can offer encouragement to support your commitment when your will falters.

Resolutions can build Extraordinary Networks.

"For myself, the sky is the limit. But without my teammates, I can't do anything...” Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State’ Quarterback and 2010 Rosebowl winner.

Our networks can be a source of camaraderie, and affinity in achieving our goals and even solace on those occasions when we aren’t producing the results we want. As an added bonus, we can leverage our resolutions to build relationships and help others achieve their goals.

§ Don’t do it alone

Find out what other people have declared for themselves in 2010 and support them in winning at their resolution games.

§ Get a “resolution partner”

Start a team with people you’d like to get to know better. Every one can set goals and daily actions for their 2010 resolutions, discussing progress against milestones, and stating promises for actions to be taken on weekly calls. Resolution partners support each other without judgment, learning together through success and failure, celebrating victories large and small.

§ Be committed to a structure for your success

Create an action plan, set milestones and take actions! Having a resolution is not the same as being committed to it. Schedule calendar time to review the actions you’ve taken for the day. Setting daily promises to support your resolutions brings intentionality and enables you to be present to what it takes to make your resolution happen.

When we don’t make promises and set milestones, it’s likely that we’ll join the statistics of people who make those New Year’s resolutions that aren’t kept. It’s hard to win a game if you don’t play and keep score!

§ Be a Winner, expect Failure

Being a winner means dealing with failure and defeat on a regular basis. Whether you’re a world champion athlete or corporate mogul, failure is a necessary element of winning. Be prepared to stay committed to your resolution, it’s essential to winning.

As you review the promises of the day, you may find that you didn’t take the actions you promised, or that you didn’t get the results you expected. Don’t give up. Set new promises, take new actions and share your successes with others!

2010. A Year of Resolutions Fulfilled!

Imagine what it would be like to accomplish all of your resolutions this year! Imagine who you would be by making promises, and taking actions that create the results you want. Imagine that you are that person already – because you are!

Have an awesome 2010! I’ve gotta feeling that it’s gonna be a great year!