I’m lucky to have met some lovely people through networking. There are many, of course, who move on as the job or career takes them out of my immediate contact zone. Although, I’m very grateful to have connections with whom I’ve developed strong relationships I can rely on. I count these as my friends.
It’s comfortable when we do business together as friends. Don’t you think? It’s easy because we share time, know each other, and share similar values. There’s a level of trust because we’ve been lucky to see each other develop a sense of commonplace.
Finding myself grateful for a strong community in my network didn’t happen overnight.
There are, of course, some days when it’s easier to feel gratitude than others. Monday comes to mind. For example, sometimes people can frustrate you. Perhaps, they’ve disappointed you, or they let themselves down by not reaching out to others when the opportunity presents itself. Some are quick to blame others for not meeting their goals, we see that often don’t we?
I think that taking a deep breath, and looking past the disappointments to find the gratitude for the good things we see in other people helps a lot with patience.
Patience is an important part of gratitude.
Patience starts at home. On a bad day (yes, I get them too) I’ve made it a habit to take moments to myself for gratitude. I like to step away from the chaos, only for a moment, giving myself a better opportunity to recognise the good things happening. Not necessarily starting a gratitude journal or going to meditate … the separation alone is often enough to get me thinking. I like to step out with the dog or step over the bike; getting a little exercise and breathing fresh air helps me remember and appreciate the good things.
Although like you, there are times the pace of life takes me past the time for a break. That’s easy when we’re working all-in, we forget that we are all products of our efforts …
Here’s something to remind you to cherish the ‘attitude of gratitude’
- Think of one thing you’re grateful for. Then write it down and share it with a close friend.
- Incorporate gratitude into your regular presentations. Ask others to share “I’m grateful for ____.”
- Make time every week to personally express your gratitude to someone in your network either verbally or in a written note.
Because, ‘people buy from people.’
CharlieKenny.me 