A LinkedIn Thanksgiving

As my American network prepares to celebrate Thanksgiving, this month, I’m also celebrating a special occasion – and I want to thank you, my network, for your role in it. Exactly one year ago, I decided to make a significant, positive (and crazy) change in my career. I decided to take a leap and quit my job – without a plan. [Cue dramatic music]

In Kelly McGonigal’s brilliant TED Talk on How to Make Stress Your Friend, she proclaims, "Chasing meaning is better for your health than trying to avoid discomfort."  It turns out that craving a more meaningful career isn’t so crazy.

My Network Gave My Career Meaning
Reflecting on this anniversary, I realized that taking that leap without a plan was only possible because of my deep certainty that my network would catch me. I am fortunate (read: strategic) enough to have surrounded myself with a group of people who have encouraged me along the way. A magical group of people I call my unicorns. Did you know that a group of unicorns is called a blessing?  How fitting….

From the second I announced my new adventure I was astounded by the abundance of people in my network who reached out saying, "That's amazing," and "How can I help?"  And for those people in my network who said things like, "Whatever you're planning to charge, double it!" and “You’re like the Greek Oprah!” I think you may be the crazy ones. I’m grateful that you are part of my tribe and that you’ve given me something new to aspire to.

My network has taught me a critical lesson: Any stress that comes with change is entirely manageable with the right people around you who will lift you in the moments when you need it most. 

It’s All About Engaging Your Network
As a public speaker and coach, I find myself explaining that our networks are our most valuable asset.  I help folks to better appreciate their own network and consider who they can lean on for support. I declare time and time again that I wouldn't be where I am without the cherished people in my network who astound, inspire and teach me.

That’s why I feel it’s time to thank you for being part of my network. Thank you for all that you have done for me over the past year – whether you realize it or not.  My sincere thanks to the unicorns who make up my network: 

1. Positive Influences: My social ties who spend their time focusing on aspirations instead of complaints. This group energizes me and I admire their positive, 'can do' attitudes. Comprised of connections, friends and clients (and clients who became friends), they share their success stories with me when they've applied my musings and spread their triumphs to keep the movement going.
2. Champions: Those who support me by encouraging and nursing my strengths. They often put me in challenging situations before I think I’m ready. They know I am. And even if they don't know I am, they know I will be ready because I’m smart enough to figure it out.  They say things like, "Just say yes and figure it out later" or "You'll be fine" or – my most frequent champion comment – "Stop thinking so much!" I'm grateful to those who are always in my corner, especially the ones who say things like, "You're worth it." Like a real-life L’Oréal ad.
3. Mentors: The ones who act as sounding boards and beacons of light in difficult situations. They have richer experience and perspective, and teach me the lessons they already learned, and allow me to make just enough mistakes to learn them myself. 
4. Sponsors: The ones who are in the locker room and meetings to which I haven’t access yet, who put their reputations on the line to open up doors for me. To an entrepreneur who has built a career on referrals, they are invaluable.
5. Disruptors: Yes, even the ones who try to put obstacles in the way or who aren't necessarily there to support me…. They are the ones who make me stronger. They teach me the lessons that the positive influences can't. They allowed me to connect with others who were more interested in removing obstacles. They pushed me to connect more deeply with the rest of my network and find support where I didn't know it existed. To achieve things perhaps I never would have attempted to do. I've had plenty of those and to them I am the most grateful. So eternally grateful, in fact, that I'm writing an entire book about the lessons they’ve taught me. My more supportive networks have kept me so busy that I haven't had much time to finish writing it but I promise: #bookcomingsoon.

5 Reasons I’m Saying Thank You
To my treasured network of unicorns, thank you for:

1. Helping me build a profitable business within a year and proving that I’m not (that) crazy
2. Infusing my career with meaning and giving me platforms to empower others
3. Clicking “Like’ and ‘Share,’ and filling my newsfeed, lifting me when you didn't realize it
4. Requesting my help and trusting me enough to be vulnerable with me
5. Creating challenges and forcing me to be even better and even more determined

*Bonus Reason* Sharing this post and sharing your thank you with others

Now It’s Your Turn
Beyond my role as an entrepreneur, I also teach at York University’s Schulich School of Business. And I’m giving you homework.

If you have one takeaway from this post, let it be this: No one makes it on their own.

That’s why I want you to give your network some attention before the end of 2015. Business is all about relationships, so appreciate and strengthen yours – especially at this reflective time of year.

Think about your network: Who has helped you get to where you are? Consider calling them, treating them to lunch or sending them a holiday card – and say thank you.

Thank you for indulging me this far and for giving me so much to be grateful for in 2015.  I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together in the year ahead.

All my best,
Fotini

Fotini Iconomopoulos helps people get what they want. In addition to public speaking and teaching MBA Negotiations, her consulting practice at Forward Focusing helps companies optimize negotiation results. Passionate about empowering women and disadvantaged groups, she also offers her experience to meaningful non-profit initiatives.  Connect with her on LinkedIn, Tweet @fotiniicon or email [email protected].