Have you ever wanted something new or different--wanted it a lot--but were afraid you couldn't or wouldn't have it because it seemed out of the realm of possibility? 

If you're human, the answer is likely yes ;-) 

Recently in a client conversation, I was reminded of the power of simply asking for what you'd like, even if the chances of hearing a "yes" seem slim. 

This falls into the realm of "I know that already...but why don't I always do it?" 

To briefly describe the situation, this person was involved in a new industry-wide initiative on behalf of his company. His boss was scheduled to address the group planning the initiative but had to back out at the last minute. 

My client was left without a senior expert speaker to address the planning committee. He recalled that he had briefly met the global expert (located in another city) on the topic at a conference a few years ago. 

On a whim (and in desperation, truth be told) he emailed him to see if he could recommend someone local to speak on the topic. 

He didn't expect a response--he didn't even expect this person to remember him--but figured it was worth a try. Not only did the expert respond and agree to speak himself, after the event he also asked my client to join a small think tank on the leading edge of research on the topic.  

The funny thing was, my client said he almost didn't reach out to this expert because he doubted he would remember him and didn't want to bother him. But because he did, he got an incredible opportunity that he never would have had. 

Lesson learned: if you don't ask, the answer's always no. If you DO ask, worst case scenario, the answer is no, but best case the answer could be a yes AND...

So, this next week, try this: 

Think about someone you've wanted to connect with that seems "outside of your league." Reach out and make a simple, friendly request or offer.

And let me know how it goes! I'd love to hear in the comments below. 

Time for a Tune-Up?

Q1 is almost over - how are you doing on your goals? If you aren't where you wished you'd be by now, or if you just want to fast-track your progress, message me back and we can talk about how to get you there in style, with a smile on your face.