Relationships: The Secret to Bigger Opportunities

Yesterday marked the close of H1:2024, and as I pondered my plans for the next quarter, a powerful word echoed in my mind: “CYCLE.” It made me realize the untapped potential of the relationships I have been blessed with.

Successful people are deliberate about their relationships. The wealthy often maintain a circle of friends from similar social standings, while the less affluent tend to do the same. This is why it's often difficult for the rich to become poor, or for the poor to get rich without a lackadaisical effort on their path.

For those struggling, the only path to success, apart from sheer luck or miracles, lies in self-development and associating with successful individuals. This principle applies to both wealth creation and career advancement.

If you spend your life in a particular locality, your friends will likely come from that same place. While not necessarily bad, this can be limiting when you need help that your immediate circle may not provide.

Reflect on your circle of friends and consider how much you can support each other. Frankly, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to learn to build and nurture relationships (networking), both horizontally and vertically.

Horizontal Networking: Horizontal networking involves expanding your influence among peers—colleagues, classmates, and immediate friends. These relationships, if well-maintained, form a valuable network for the future. Avoid unnecessary conflicts with these peers, as they could be crucial allies later on as you age or as you advance in your career. The men of today are tomorrow’s leaders. When others slip, do you encourage them to rise or see it as an opportunity to subdue them? What kind of a friend are you?

Truth be told, wise people know that they are as strong as the number of people who can support them in tough times. So, they spend time, using their resources and portfolio to win hearts. I agree you can’t be friends with everyone, but that doesn’t mean you should make them enemies instead. Some people are terrible at handling their emotions, flaring up just to prove points is not necessary.

VERTICAL NETWORKING

Vertical Networking involves creating connections with those at the top without forgetting those below. It’s like two-way traffic. A proverb says, If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.

If you want to go far, you must, as a matter of necessity, build relationships with those who are far higher than you. There are a lot of things that money, beauty, qualifications, or even good character may not give you, and If we want to be truthful, you will agree with me without sentiments. If it’s solely by good reputation, some of those people sitting in big offices in our government houses will not be there.

As you continue your work in life, utilize every morally-correct opportunity to network with those who can pull strings and break protocols on your behalf. Most importantly, such networks will enhance the way you think and grant you wisdom beyond your circle of friends. If all the people you listen to are on the same level as you, you will only experience arithmetic growth. But if you also glean on the wisdom of those above you, you’ll live above your age with exponential wisdom. Upward vertical relationships are the foundation of what you call “connections.”

Downward Vertical Networking

To connect with those above, they (those above) first look down. Similarly, you should help those below you. I am not advocating spending excessive time with them, that could also hinder your growth, but completely ignoring them shows ingratitude to those who helped you.

If you cannot bring out a little time to hear these ones out, then you're quite ungrateful to those who gave you opportunities. Dear Sir/Ma, please be reminded that keeping your distance when necessary is not arrogance or pride, however, learn to give back to people.

THE PITFALLS OF OUR GENERATION

We are part of a generation that often fails to recognize that achieving greatness is easier when we stand on the shoulders of others. Sadly, many find it easier to create enemies than to cultivate friendships. Their words flow unchecked, creating discord, and any attempt at correction brands you an enemy.

Dear Wise Ones, if there isn't someone in your life who can call you to order and influence your decisions, you're heading for disaster, no matter your social status. You'll miss your way many times before you find the right path.

One of the easiest ways to grow is through association. It is not enough to be educated, well-mannered, skilled, and talented. Sir/Ma, build your network, so when you cry wolf, there will be someone who will respond. Life comes with its own ups and downs, and you will surely encounter tough days when you need assistance.

A hard-working man builds bridges. But a wise man uses the bridges of others and builds more bridges for those coming after him. Build more connections, but never forget the strong friends who have grown with you from the beginning. They too have bright futures, and together, you are more powerful as allies.