Mastermind.

You've heard it said that two heads are better than one. This would of course, depend upon which two heads we're talking about, but -all things being equal- there is strength and wisdom in numbers. The farther up the mountain of success you travel, the less populated you will find your path be. Achievement and excellence bring a degree of isolation. 

No one should ever make a decision in a vacuum. As you progress closer and closer to your goals, however,it becomes more difficult to find people whose advice and counsel are appropriate. 

One of the keys to seeking counsel is to never ask someones advice if they don't already have what you're trying to obtain as you pursue your goals. It is not critical that they be on the same path, but it is vital that they share the critical elements of your success. 

In an interview, Tiger Woods revealed that he, Charles Barkley, and Michael Jordan speak either in person or on the telephone a minimum of once a week. They have found that they share life challenges relating to athletic performance, financial success, and living in the public eye. The fact that Tiger Woods is a golfer and Michael Jordan a basketball player is not really important relating to these areas of mutual interest. 

Whether these high-performing athletes realize it, they have form a mastermind group. A mastermind group is nothing more or less than a group of like-minded individuals who are dealing with the same obstacles and challenges. Recently I formed such a group with four other colleagues from the speaking profession. We all speak on slightly different topics and move in varied circles; however, when it comes to the basic day-to-day challenges surrounding the growth and success of our business, we are each in the same game. We set our own rules, and we establish our own goals. We depend on one another for honest feedback and accountability.

I would like to encourage you to find several like-minded individuals who are travelling on the same road or at least a similar road toward success, and form your own mastermind group. The dividends you will both give and receive can be immeasurable.