Sometimes networking isn’t just a business thing. It’s also very much about surviving and thriving as a human being, in good times and in bad.

I wrote The Intentional Networker: Attracting Powerful Relationships, Referrals & Results in Business because so many of my clients and colleagues kept asking me the same questions. They all wanted to know how to effectively attract the connections, relationships, referrals, and resources that would help them build, sustain, and grow their businesses.  In some cases, though, it wasn’t just about business, but about feeling more connected and in-the-know, living their dream, balancing work and raising a family, completing a big project, launching an initiative, or simply living a life that made them happier.

When I stumbled upon the following list written by my friend Renee Trudeau (excerpted from her must-read book The Mother’s Guide to Renewal: How to Reclaim, Rejuvenate and Re-Balance Your Life ), I knew I had to include it in this blog. Here it is with Renee’s permission and blessing, of course.

“Having a support system can have a huge impact on  how you experience day-to-day life. Research shows that individuals who have  robust support systems:

• are more effective at work and at home (they feel as if they have a “team” behind them and that they’re not all alone)
• keep resolutions, particularly those involving their health and physical well-being
• weather personal and professional challenges more easily
• are less likely to feel overwhelmed
• find it easier to maintain perspective stay healthier on all levels—mentally, physically  and emotionally
• are less likely to feel isolated (isolation can  lead to feelings of despair and failure)
• experience less stress and burnout
• have children who are comfortable asking for and receiving support and help from others”

I would also add that strong support networks are helpful for:

• research and decision-making
• brainstorming and inspiration
• exploring and getting feedback on ideas
• building the confidence and courage to try new techniques and technologies
• keeping a sense of perspective, even finding humor, in difficult or trying situations
• accountability

What would you add to this list?  How does your network add value, color, and comfort to both your professional and personal lives?

And for more great ideas and resources, please visit Renee’s website http://www.reneetrudeau.com/.  She is very generous with her expertise.

——————————————————

Need a seasoned, objective brain-storming partner to help you work through some specific challenges regarding how you can grow (or leverage) your own powerful network? Don’t wait! Sign up to today for a one-on-one 30 minute telecoaching session with me.  Reduced pricing (only $79 per 30 minute session) will only last a couple more weeks.  Contact me at patti[at]intentionalnetworker[dot]com.