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Tag: relationships

Collaboration over competition

A scarcity mentality sees just enough, a limited pile of resources from which to draw. This kind of thinking breeds competition: “If she is earning that much money, there’s less for me.”

Collaboration, on the other hand, is rooted in abundance. With plenty of supplies and stock for all, there is no need to edge out another in order to gain. In fact, those who come out on top are the ones who have spent time cultivating partnerships and collaborating with like-minded organizations.

Entrepreneurs too often scan for potential threats when they should be looking for ways to build relationships. The most successful leaders realize that in an interconnected world, collaboration is key to solving complex problems, establishing communities, and inspiring new generations.

It is no longer enough to be first; the system with the most users, the most clients, and the most buy-in is the one that will stay ahead of the curve.

Ask or invite

We are taught early on that when you need something, you ask. Ask for permission, ask for directions, ask for funding, ask for time off. Information is required, and in order to get an answer you must ask a question.
Invitations, however, are reserved for special occasions. To invite is to include and to welcome; an opportunity to further a relationship and encourage dialogue.
Inviting a company to join your cause or partner together builds a different dynamic than a pointed ask for resources and support. Instead of asking clients to buy your product, invite them to take part in a greater story (see Seth’s Permission Marketing and Bernadette’s Story of Telling).
The next time you need something, look for ways to create an invitation instead of a simple ask.

52 ways to connect

  1. Make a phone call.
  2. Send flowers.
  3. Write a note.
  4. Return an email.
  5. Volunteer with a local organization.
  6. Donate books.
  7. Host a garage sale.
  8. Share a hug.
  9. Cook dinner for friends.
  10. Surprise an older relative.
  11. Join a club.
  12. Listen to a motivational podcast.
  13. Take a walk in nature.
  14. Smile to a stranger.
  15. Use first names in meetings.
  16. Start a book club.
  17. Enroll in a class.
  18. Visit a local market.
  19. Praise good service.
  20. Meet a friend for coffee.
  21. Ask questions.
  22. Say hello.
  23. Walk a dog.
  24. Follow a YouTube yoga video.
  25. Skype a long-distance friend or family member.
  26. Create a music playlist.
  27. Attend an event by yourself.
  28. Make eye contact.
  29. Say thank you.
  30. Write a recommendation.
  31. Visit an art gallery.
  32. Reply to an ignored or forgotten message.
  33. Go to a sporting event.
  34. Pretend you’re a tourist in your home city.
  35. Run a race.
  36. Support your local museum.
  37. Use public transportation.
  38. Plan a picnic with friends.
  39. Start a blog.
  40. Take photographs.
  41. Participate in an online course.
  42. Message someone whose work you admire.
  43. Research community efforts in your area: CSAs, food swaps, community gardens, library projects.
  44. Visit a National Park.
  45. Plan a date night.
  46. Go on a morning walk with a friend.
  47. Surprise someone with a gift.
  48. Make a thoughtful introduction.
  49. Bake something for your neighbor.
  50. Pack lunch for a colleague.
  51. Compliment genuinely.
  52. Write a list of 20 things you are thankful for.

Write a book in eighty minutes

That’s what this group did — A group of twenty young people, hand picked from many, many applications, were given the assignment to write an ebook together. Except they were only given one hour and twenty minutes to complete it and publish it online.

This wasn’t simply a writing exercise. This was a teaching moment, an experience in vulnerability, connection, community, and risk taking. A practice in connecting ideas and people in a meaningful way. These students learned to alternate between stepping back and seeing the whole picture, then leaning in and dissecting the work before stepping back and reviewing the vision all over again.

They learned that fear is a powerful roadblock, but one that can be picked up and moved. Anytime. Anywhere. They practiced listening. They saw first hand that when you ask the right questions and stop to listen, the world unfolds before you. And they learned to step into the unique role that only you can create for yourself.

You have far more control over your destiny than you could ever possibly imagine.

Tips for mindful giving

The holiday season brings wonderful reminders that it is often better to give than to receive. Whether volunteering at a local organization, donating goods, or writing checks to support specific projects, giving feels good.

Maximize your resources while looking for ways to contribute meaningfully within your communities. Small organizations can be overwhelmed this time of year, so ask a few questions to find out how you can best be of service.

What causes are important to me?

With so many fundraisers and worthy social groups, it can be difficult to know where to give. Consider your personal values and the issues you are most passionate about. You may know someone working closely with an organization or can receive referrals from friends.

Who can I connect?

One of the best ways you can support an organization is through your network. Look for ways to draw parallels between your colleagues and the goals of a particular organization. Valuable introductions are like gold.

What work is needed?

Small organizations often need help with administrative tasks — website design, donor management, marketing materials. On the ground opportunities may provide more Instagram-worthy photo ops, but helping staff inside the office may be more valuable to the team.

What goals can I support?

Most organizations have short-term and long-term visions and may need help with a project you’re not fully aware of. Don’t be afraid to ask what objectives you can encourage, regardless of whether results are immediate.

Your thoughtfulness is valuable and so very needed!