During a recent group coaching session- Defining Your Business Purpose- I noticed an overwhelming majority of the advisors in group had similar responses when asked, “What was your single take away from today’s session?” Most if not all of the advisors who were in the group replied, “I am not alone.”
Don’t get me wrong, their responses were not an echo of each other. Many advisors had their own specific “single take away”, but each seemed to comment on who (in the group) had provided them with their new found nugget of wisdom; be it me, or their colleagues, (who, by the way they had never met nor spoken to before this session).
Advisors replied with answers such as, “I could relate to what, (so-and-so) said about _____….” or, “I really liked what, (so-and-so) said about having a challenge with ______ because I thought I was the only one who had this challenge.” These types of responses only masked the real message- which is the fact that although you may feel isolated in your challenges, you are not alone.
This group is not unique. Many advisors get a sense of camaraderie and ancillary learning while experiencing a group coaching setting. What is unique is your understanding of the truth about your colleagues; a truth that might surprise you!
The following are a few of the truths that you need to know:
- All advisors face the same challenges at some point in their careers’.
It doesn’t matter if you are in Denver, Dallas, Detroit or Davenport…at some point in your career you will face the same challenges that other advisors had (or have) to face. The reason being is because common challenges such as fear of rejection, handling objections and filling the pipeline, (just to name a few) are universal.
- Many advisors feel isolated in their challenges.
Again, you are not alone. You may think you are alone because of the independent nature of our business, (and often the reluctance to discuss our challenges), but in reality you have colleagues and friends that are going through or have gone through the same challenges you are; thus, many of your colleagues feel they are alone and isolated in their challenges.
Your isolation, (as well as theirs) could be easily overcome by finding a mentor or mentee. There is someone right now who needs your help! You could create your own Mastermind Group or join one to help yourself and others.
- Solutions are available, but many of your colleagues are not looking for nor apply them.
The truth is that many of your colleagues may have challenges and may not be willing to find solutions. Those that do find solutions may not be willing to make the necessary changes to implement those solutions and create a long lasting impact on their business. As one advisor stated in a recent coaching session, “I read all the books I can on improving my business. Then, I put the books away and continue having the same problems.”
Now that you know some of the truths about your colleagues, it is time to do something about it. Reach out to those who truly need your help. Or, ask for a helping hand if need be. In either case, if you do you will soon realize that you are not alone.