Most people won’t

Happy Tuesday! If you’re new here, or subscribed last year and are just opening this for the first time, I send an email once a week exploring how we leverage our most important asset - relationships - to build strong networks of clients, co-creators, and community.

What are you afraid of?

When Americans were surveyed for their fears, the only thing that beat out spiders, snakes, drowning, and clowns was… public speaking. It might seem odd at first that we’re more afraid of standing in front of a crowd than we are of heights. But as social creatures, the fear of social rejection is real.

I’ve seen this come up as one of the two core blockers that prevent people from being more engaged with their networks. We don’t reach out, in large part, because we’re afraid to.

Regardless of it being an old friend, a past collaborator, an ideal prospect, or someone we look up to - our minds tend to catastrophize. The fear of rejection, as if calling up a past client will trigger a downward spiral that will leave us alone and homeless, will keep most of us on the sidelines.

Of we give intentional space to sit with that fear, we realize - what’s the worst thing that can happen?

Would a past client really be that angry that you’re checking in on them? If a prospect declines your offer, is it that bad that you have a clear signal and can focus on everyone else? Here’s a video that dives more into fearsetting.

Now try this

Now that we know this, what do we do about it?

Have you ever had a mantra given to you that lodges in your head forever?

The next time you find yourself encountering the fear of reaching out, just remember, everyone has the same psychological barriers.

Most people won’t take action then.

Therefore, if you are among the few that can overcome that blocker and press Send, you’re already way ahead of the pack. Their fear is your competitive advantage.

Most people won’t.

Watch This

As I continue my adventure into video, I posted a video on another issue that derails your networking efforts - not having set goals.

Further Reading

My friend Mike and I are kindred spirits in our quest for more connection in the world, and he’s taken the time to go deep on the thesis.

Until next week!