Sunday, August 24, 2008

Grey Zones

Mentoring and networking create a lot of 'grey zones' - areas where it isn't clear what to do or how to do it. Choices aren't obviously professional or personal, rational or emotional, traditional or self-directed.

If you are debating, searching, questioning - don't feel dumb. We're all doing the same thing.

That's the real secret - there is no one answer and we're all making it up and changing the rules as we go.

I know there are lots of books/websites/articles etc. out there that offer step-by-step instructions. I may fall into the same trap along the way - are there any universal "do"s or "don't"s?

But those checklists assume you have a decisive linear direction and that you are simply looking to refine your tactics.

I really believe that if we are serious about building a personal community - and doing the work it takes to make it productive for ourselves and others - then it requires a long-term view and is based on relationships vs. events and checkmarks.

And, of course, sincerity.

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