In this article we will explore the entrepreneur’s need for connection. And why networking like a child can help us find those connections more easily.
We need connection.
As the saying goes, “No man is an island,” or rather, No WOMAN is an island. As humans, we need to connect with other people. We cannot do everything by ourselves. We need other people to feel fulfilled in life.
A study was done where they discovered that a person who is deeply connected with another person will live a longer and more satisfactory life than people who aren’t deeply connected with others.
So, I challenge you to reflect on the people you surround yourself with and ask yourself if these relationships that you have are fulfilling. What do you gain and what do you offer in each relationship that you have in your life?
You can choose to isolate yourself and tackle everything on your own, or you can choose to be around other people and ask for support. And if you find yourself in a new endeavor, new town, new space, new school with a new challenge, then it is time to step out of your comfort zone and do some networking!
Network like an adult.
NETWORKING sounds shady to many people. Some people get excited about networking and others get really scared. It can truly be intimidating to go someplace where you don’t know anyone and try to make new friends. Especially as an adult.
As grownups, making new friends or acquaintances becomes a chore because we usually have an agenda: a sale to make, a goal to accomplish, a mate to find. We put so much pressure on ourselves to make a good impression.
It is easier for kids to “network” right?
Network like a kid.
Kids simply go into the playground or school and start playing with other kids or talking to them because they show up without any agenda other than to connect with another kid. Kids want to get to know the other children, play, and have fun. Then they go home and if they are lucky, maybe they see those kids again another time. But they aren’t worried about the next time. They are in this moment, just connecting.
Imagine how much better is would be if we could see networking as kids do:
Show up as your true authentic self
Have fun
Get curious
Don’t attach yourself to the outcome
Reframing our view.
Networking is a beautiful thing where we can meet new friends, new clients, a new support system, or just be around other people and learn new things!
We need to stop attaching ourselves to the outcome of networking. Sure, we may meet our “people,” our “tribe,” or our “sisterhood” at a network event, or we may just leave with a swag bag or some lessons to use for future events.
But here’s the truth, we need other people for support and having a community on our side can help us during the toughest times of our lives.
Networking is just an introduction to people who we may or may not have a connection with. If we find ourself feeling out of place, or if the space is not a good fit, we can always leave. It is not personal. Just go to a different playground!
Networking is trial and error, like dating!
When you finally find your group, I challenge you to go beyond showing up as your true authentic self – actually ASK for what you need and express how you feel.
When we get to a point where we can be vulnerable in a group or to a person, it means that we have achieved a deeper connection with them, and we can trust them to be there for us when we need them, whether in business or personal stuff.
You are not alone.
There’s always someone out there who can relate.
