Successful companies often have a designated board of directors to help them make decisions, establish policies, and maneuver through rough waters. A well-functioning board of directors can add value to a company by looking at the big picture and the company’s overall goals. They are looking for potential pitfalls and offer ideas on the best course to take for the most success.
Imagine what would happen if you applied this same concept to your life by instituting a personal board of directors.
Who are the friends, colleagues, professionals, and family members in your life who see your blind spots? Who do you admire? Who has information that can be valuable to you? These people will help you think outside of the box and give you advice and ideas you may not have had on your own.
To set up your personal board of directors, consider choosing people whose personalities, life experiences, and professional backgrounds are different than yours. Diversity leads to diversity of thought.
Choose people who will provide you with authentic feedback. You want honest people in your corner. You won’t always like what you hear from your board members, but those who tell you the truth empower you to grow. When you’re ready to build your board of directors, here are some roles to consider filling.
Roles that People Could Serve on My Board
The Connector
This person is well-established in the community, respected in their field, and most importantly, seems to know people worth knowing. Having a connector on your board is invaluable in terms of networking possibilities and career or business opportunities.
The Accountability Master
This person will hold you to task and give you the gentle (or not so gentle) nudge to get you moving towards your goal. They will help you navigate your blind spots and provide honest constructive feedback when you need it most. This person can also help you step out of your comfort zone to take a risk and embrace change.
The Shoulder to Lean On
Sometimes you just need someone to listen and empathize with your situation. We all need someone to vent to. This person knows where to draw the line, when to be your shoulder to lean on and provide you with a pick-me-up, when to tell you enough is enough, and when to tell you that taking action is better than complaining.
The Dreamer
The power of The Dreamer on your board is that they think big and they believe in you in a big way. They will motivate you to accomplish goals that once seemed beyond your wildest imagination. Sure, sometimes failure is inevitable, but The Dreamer motivates you to try hard and try harder. After all, without risk, there is no reward.
The Mentor
This is a person you trust and respect and whose guidance has already led you to success. This person doesn’t have all the answers, but sure asks the right questions to get you to explore options. There’s nothing better than being able to talk to someone in your industry who gets it and can offer guidance you need to get to the next level.
Creating your personal board of directors can be a life changing experience! For help building your board, schedule a complimentary 30-minute session! Meanwhile, don’t forget to join the encouraging, supportive community at Shine on Purpose.
