[Personal Resilience] The Network Effect: How Diverse Connections Supercharge Your Success

Hey LinkedIn Family! ??

Have you ever heard the saying, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with"? It's true! The people around you shape who you are and who you become. So, let’s talk about how your network contributes to your success and why stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing diverse experiences is crucial.

The Comfort Zone Conundrum ??

Growth happens when you push your boundaries. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, who make you to think differently, and who inspire you to be better. Comfort zones are cosy, but nothing extraordinary ever happens there. Embrace discomfort—a sign that you’re on the path to greatness!

Seek Out Diverse Experiences ??

Don't just stick to what you know—venture into the unknown! Try new things, even if they make you uncomfortable. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you rise to the challenge. Early in your career, this will set you apart. There's no substitute for experience, and here’s a snapshot of my journey to prove it:

1. National, Provincial & Local Elections: Understanding the nuts and bolts of democratic processes and what it means to shape a resilient democracy.
2. Building Diverse, Democratic Systems: Creating environments that foster social cohesion.
3. Defining Fan Experiences: Shaping memorable moments for a major World Cup event.
4. Smart University Projects: Informing technology enablement in Gulf countries will position it as a "Silicon Valley" of MEA.
5. Fuel Stations of the Future: Learning about the next-gen fuel industry.
6. Digital Banking & Brokerage: Crafting digital financial ecosystems for the future.
7. Shaping Complex Opportunities: Unlocking 10x returns on multi-million dollar projects.
8. Diversifying Economies: Leveraging innovation to boost foreign investment in oil-based economies.
9. Regulating Digital Payments: Unlocking unbanked markets while providing real-time fiscal intelligence.
10. Influencing Organizational Direction: Drafting minutes for executive meetings to shape priorities and narratives.

These diverse experiences have been invaluable; seeking them out early in my career was a game-changer. It’s all about “paying your school fees” through real-world experience.

The Magic of a Diverse Network ??

Many people make the mistake of keeping company with those similar in age, gender, culture, or geography. We see the significance of these "similar to me" networks in our highly divided world. There is always the "us" and "them" conversation, and, within this, the "you" and "me" conversation. There is no convergence for the "we" / "better together" conversation. While it’s natural to gravitate toward the familiar, it limits the value you derive from your network. Diversity is key! A varied network brings different perspectives, ideas, and experiences, enriching your life and expanding your horizons.

The Sunday Lunch Test ???

Imagine your Sunday lunch table. Who would show up? Not who you’d invite, but who would come? Most often, it's people very similar to you. But here’s the kicker—you don’t want to be the average of yourself! Aim to be the least successful, dumbest person at that table. Why? This way, you elevate your average by surrounding yourself with more successful and knowledgeable individuals than you.

Identify those people you aspire to be like. Understand what makes them tick. Build genuine relationships based on mutual value. It’s not about taking—it's about giving and growing together.

Coaches & Mentors: Your Personal Yodas ??♂?

Everyone needs coaches and mentors. These are the people who guide you, challenge you, and help you grow. Whether it’s in areas you want to thrive in or new fields you’re exploring, having mentors is crucial. They provide insights you might never see on your own and push you to reach your full potential.

Global Relevance: Competing on a Global Stage ??

In today's interconnected world, gaining globally relevant experience is critical for staying competitive in the global economy. What I've learned from my international experience is that challenges we sometimes feel are insurmountable in Africa have often been elegantly solved in more mature markets. Yes, there may be nuances to localize these ideas to the African landscape, but the solutions are out there, waiting to be adapted and implemented.

The Value of Diverse Executive Teams ??

Those who know me know that my time is my most valuable commodity. You can only produce a little time but invest wisely in learning, reading, and engaging with the right people. One of the most important aspects I consider when interviewing for future roles is the diversity of a company’s executive structure. This indicates whether a company truly understands and values diversity and its importance in building resilient organizations that stand the test of time.

I am okay with declining opportunities - where organisations are not aligned with my vision and value systems.

Even in nature, a lack of biodiversity leads to extinction. Time and time again, we see large, old-school, non-diverse companies fail because they need more diverse perspectives to withstand changing times. Just this morning, I discussed the value of their diverse perspectives with an executive team. We engaged respectfully and learned from each other’s different viewpoints.

Each One Brings (At Least) One: Growing Together ??

As a leader, it's not just about climbing the mountain alone. Each one should bring at least one person along on their journey. Here’s why:

1. Shared Success: You don’t want to reach the summit and find no one to share your success with. The journey is richer and more rewarding with others by your side.
2. Collective Strength: The higher you go in business, the more your success depends on the people around you. Make sure you trust them and that they can thrive at the heights you aspire to reach.

Invest in those around you. Identify people you can mentor and help grow. Understand what makes them tick and how you can add value to their ambitions. Building these genuine, reciprocal relationships will not only boost their careers but yours as well.

Conclusion: Your Network is Your Net Worth ??

So, could you take a moment to assess your network? Who are the top 5-10 people you spend the most time with? Are they pushing you to be better? Are they diverse in thought and background? If not, it might be time to expand your circle. Some people are not built to survive at the height at which you are going - so you either need to help them "level up" or "let them go".

Remember, you are the average of the people you surround yourself with. Choose wisely, seek diversity, and never stop growing. Your network will open more doors than your degree or IQ ever will—especially in the AI era we're entering. But that's a topic for another article!

Stay awesome, LinkedIn family! ??

#Networking #GrowthMindset #Diversity #Mentorship #Leadership #Success #LinkedInFamily #GlobalExperience

Feel free to add your personal experiences and insights. Let's inspire each other to build networks that truly make a difference! ??