Tips to Find Your Mastermind Tribe
At some point in our life and career we hit a wall or we get stuck. We feel overwhelmed and uncertain, as though we are surrounded by darkness or lost in the woods.
Rather than wallowing in misery or giving up completely – and resigning ourselves to crossing the days off of our calendars until the next vacation or our retirement – we can take a small step towards a new way of seeing and being in the world.
What exactly is a mastermind?
Essentially, a mastermind group is a community of peers who gather together to support and challenge one another to set meaningful goals, to share experience and knowledge, and to hold one another accountable in a manner that supports growth.
The concept of mastermind groups traces back to the early 20th century and is often associated with Napoleon Hill, a pioneering self-help author best known for his book Think and Grow Rich, published in 1937.
The tl;dr version for those who haven’t read the book: Hill’s conversations with Andrew Carnegie and study of successful industrialists at the time led to numerous principles for achieving success and wealth. He emphasizes the power of positive thinking, goal-setting, and persistence. He also highlights the importance of developing a burning desire, mastering the art of visualization, and surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals.
While Napoleon Hill played a key role in popularizing the concept of mastermind groups, the practice of individuals coming together for mutual support, learning, and growth has roots in various cultures and traditions throughout history.
The modern interpretation of mastermind groups continues to evolve, with practitioners adapting the concept to different contexts, industries, and objectives.
What types are available to me today?
Mastermind groups can vary widely in their structure, focus, and format, catering to different needs, goals, and preferences of their members. Here are a few to consider:
- General Mastermind Groups – These groups are open to individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries. Members come together to share ideas, offer support, and hold each other accountable for personal and professional goals. The range of topics is quite broad.
- Industry-Specific Mastermind Groups – These groups are composed of individuals working in the same industry or niche. Members share common challenges, opportunities, and insights related to their field which allows for more targeted discussions and knowledge exchange.
- Entrepreneurial Mastermind Groups – Designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners, these groups provide a supportive environment for discussing business strategies, overcoming obstacles, and fostering growth.
- Leadership Mastermind Groups – Geared towards executives, managers, and emerging leaders, these groups focus on leadership development, decision-making, and organizational effectiveness. Members share experiences, exchange best practices, and receive feedback to enhance their leadership skills.
- Creative Mastermind Groups – These groups cater to individuals in creative industries such as art, design, music, writing, and filmmaking. Members collaborate on projects, share feedback on creative work, and explore innovative ideas and techniques.
- Mastermind Groups for Personal Development – These groups focus on personal growth, self-improvement, and holistic well-being. Members explore topics such as mindset, mindfulness, and self-care and support one another in the pursuit of greater fulfillment in life.
- Mastermind Groups for Specific Goals or Challenges – Some mastermind groups form around specific goals, challenges, or projects. Members may be launching a business, writing a book, completing a fitness challenge, or achieving a milestone and seek targeted support and accountability.
- Virtual Mastermind Groups – With advancements in technology, virtual mastermind groups have become increasingly popular. These groups meet online using video conferencing platforms, allowing members from across the globe to connect and collaborate remotely.
- Paid Mastermind Groups – While many mastermind groups operate on a volunteer basis, some are facilitated by coaches, consultants, or organizations and require membership fees or contributions. Paid mastermind groups often offer additional resources, expert guidance, and structured programs to support members.
Sounds interesting, how do I find one that’s right for me?
When planning to invest your time and money to join a mastermind group, there are a few key considerations to make.
First, what are your specific needs or goals at this point in your life and career…personal or professional growth and development…launching a new business…developing a new skill?
Second, what time and format fits your schedule…virtual or in-person…during working hours or after work…structured around a specific outcome or open to broad ideas and strategies?
Third, who would you like to spend time with and learn from…local people in your community or thought leaders in your niche…a culturally diverse group with a global reach or like-minded people with shared goals, values, and life experience?
Depending on the time you have available and the outcome you desire, you may consider becoming a member of a few different types of mastermind groups.
What should I expect from my mastermind group?
Investing in yourself by joining a mastermind group is a giant leap toward becoming the person who does the things to achieve the dreams you desire.
There are many benefits of belonging to a mastermind group, here are some of the best:
- Knowledge and Learning
- Networking and Connections
- Accountability and Support
- Personal and Professional Growth
- Collaboration and Synergy
- Increased Confidence
Pro tips for maximizing your ROI
Being part of an amazing group of humans also requires you to show up and be your best self as well.
This looks like…
- Preparing ahead of time for the meeting and bringing relevant updates, challenges, and goals.
- Actively listening (there are actually books written on this topic because it doesn’t come naturally to some people).
- Sharing experiences and resources that are helpful to others in your group.
- Being open-minded and embracing different perspectives.
- Actively engaging by participating in discussions, asking questions, and offering ideas.
- Respecting others…time, experiences, emotions, thoughts, and ideas.
- Following through on your commitments and taking action on agreed-upon goals.
As someone who leads and attends masterminds, it can be frustrating and disheartening when people don’t show up on time, look like they’re working on other things, or fail to prepare for the topic at hand.
Anything else I should know?
Let’s briefly chat about expectations, which I playfully refer to as the root of all discord.
It’s important to make a mental note that every human interaction and every relationship is an opportunity to learn. Sometimes we learn what to do and who we like and sometimes we learn what not to do and who we don’t really care for. In the end, we learn.
On the expectations spectrum, the bright and happy side includes collaboration, accountability, support, diversity, confidentiality, growth, and commitment. The shadow side would be the antithesis of these.
As you progress through your mastermind journey, you will most likely find the paid groups are the highest caliber and yield the greatest ROI. A great facilitator and organizer is worth her weight in gold!
What’s the next step?
You have decided that a mastermind group is the next crucial step towards a more fulfilling life.
After reflection and research, you have narrowed your list to a few that will meet your needs…the right time, topic, people, location, and investment.
It’s time to apply to the group and experience the discovery meetings – either by video call or in-person. This is your opportunity to ask questions, get a feel for the facilitator and meeting flow, and determine if it’s a good fit.
Want to take a deeper dive?
Here are a few resources to consider in your search for the right mastermind group for you.
- Professional Networks: Reach out to your professional contacts, mentors, or industry associations for recommendations.
- Books and Courses: Many authors and thought leaders have written about the power of mastermind groups and offer guidance on how to form or join effective ones.
- Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
- How to Create a Mastermind Group: The Power Hour Ticket to Everything You’ve Ever Wanted by Cicely Maxwell
- Mastermind Group Blueprint by Tobe Brockner
- Assess Accountability and Structure: A well-organized mastermind group will have clear goals, structured meetings, and mechanisms for accountability.
- Consider Cost vs. Value: Many mastermind groups may require membership fees or contributions. Evaluate whether the cost aligns with the value you expect to receive from the group in terms of personal and professional development.
Still have questions or want to stay in the loop for upcoming mastermind groups?
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