#24: Suzanne Weller engages with executive coach Michael Melcher to explore the themes of courage, growth, and the importance of networking. They discuss the discomfort that often accompanies personal change, the role of self-compassion, and how to navigate relationships that can either support or hinder our growth. Michael emphasizes the significance of taking courageous actions, the unpredictability of networking outcomes, and the necessity of reframing our approach to relationships in both personal and professional contexts. The conversation highlights the idea of an “invisible network” and the importance of cultivating connections to foster growth and opportunity.

Takeaways:

Expectations can hinder networking opportunities.

• Networking requires openness to unexpected outcomes.
• Weak ties can be valuable in career development.
• Talking about yourself is necessary for career advancement.
• Reframing relationships can change how we view networking.
• Cultivating a network is an ongoing process.

Sound Bites:

"Growth is a lot about discomfort."

"You can give yourself permission to let it be hard."

"You need to get out of your own zone."

"It's a living thing, your network."

"Keep gardening that network."

Chapters:

01:49 The Courage to Disrupt and Change

06:09 Navigating Discomfort and Self-Compassion

09:53 The Role of Others in Courageous Actions

15:09 Expectations and Networking

19:51 Understanding the Invisible Network

25:05 Reframing Relationships and Business Development

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

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