network theory
There is a fascinating branch of sociology called network theory that explores the way relational networks affect out lives. I am more and more convinced that the old adage is true: it's not what you know but who you know.
As I look back over the last few months I'm grateful for a handful of connectors (Malcom Gladwell label in The Tipping Point) who have opened doors of opportunity by connecting me with the right people. Greg Ligon at Leadership Network is a connector. He facilitated the opportunity to meet Jim Tomberlin and be part of the multi-site forum at Willowcreek. John Eames, my agent, is networking with publishers for me. My mentor, Dick Foth, has used his network of relationships to add value to my life. I'm realizing that one of the greatest gifts we can give another person is our network of relationships that we've spent a lifetime developing.
I guess what I'm trying to blog is this: it really does boil down to relationships in the long run. It's not about manipulating or posturing. John Maxwell said something powerful at the Leadership Summit last week. He has a thirty second rule. Everytime he meets someone he tries to say something affirming within the first thirty seconds. We all know "smoozers" who kiss up. But when we genuinely approach people in a Christlike way we can't help but encourage them.
I've always loved the advice of Benjamin Franklin. He said, "Every man is my superior in some way. In that I learn of him." I try to approach every encounter with everyone as a learning opportunity. I want to learn something. It's a posture of humility.
I have a core conviction: God is in the business of strategically positioning us in the right place at the right time. I also think God is in the business of making sure we meet the right people at the right time. That's my divine network theory.
As I look back over the last few months I'm grateful for a handful of connectors (Malcom Gladwell label in The Tipping Point) who have opened doors of opportunity by connecting me with the right people. Greg Ligon at Leadership Network is a connector. He facilitated the opportunity to meet Jim Tomberlin and be part of the multi-site forum at Willowcreek. John Eames, my agent, is networking with publishers for me. My mentor, Dick Foth, has used his network of relationships to add value to my life. I'm realizing that one of the greatest gifts we can give another person is our network of relationships that we've spent a lifetime developing.
I guess what I'm trying to blog is this: it really does boil down to relationships in the long run. It's not about manipulating or posturing. John Maxwell said something powerful at the Leadership Summit last week. He has a thirty second rule. Everytime he meets someone he tries to say something affirming within the first thirty seconds. We all know "smoozers" who kiss up. But when we genuinely approach people in a Christlike way we can't help but encourage them.
I've always loved the advice of Benjamin Franklin. He said, "Every man is my superior in some way. In that I learn of him." I try to approach every encounter with everyone as a learning opportunity. I want to learn something. It's a posture of humility.
I have a core conviction: God is in the business of strategically positioning us in the right place at the right time. I also think God is in the business of making sure we meet the right people at the right time. That's my divine network theory.
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