A mastermind group can be an informal and ad hoc gathering or a regular weekly meeting, but it has two or more people working together in harmony for the attainment of a definite purpose. 1. You can't do it alone Success is not a solo act. To get from here to there, you need other people. A mastermind group is an excellent way to interest other people in your vision of success. 2. Purpose What is the purpose of the group? Is it to benefit one individual, or is it about mutual benefit and growing relationships on an ongoing basis? (both are legitimate) Is the group purpose stated clearly from the outset? Groups seem to work better if they are clear about the group's overall purpose and if individual members are able to state their own definite, major purpose. Andrew Cargnegie said this is one of the two most important factors for success. 3. Trust What is the level of trust in the group? The mastermind is only valuable to the extent of trust among its members. Are people safe sharing things in confidence with the group? Groups don't go far without high levels of trust. 4. Cooperation Using the original meaning of this word, what are group members willing to "work with" each other on? Is help forthcoming from the group? 5. Look for a diversity of talents and perspectives How well do people line up in complementary fields of experience or expertise? A mastermind group is strengthened by bringing together people with very different outlooks. This allows members' gifts to complement and dovetail with each other. 6. Be Selective Small is good. Two to six members is ideal, twelve is the maximum. Don't work with "whoever" might show up. Think about your growth strategically and about who might aid you in getting to where you want to be. Choose nurturing people to join you in this project. Look for naturally existing relationships (family member, someone you are selling your services to, etc.) 7. Harmony How strong is the spirit of working together? Is there a sense of commonness and shared purpose? Harmony deepens when everyone is aligned 100% with the group's common purpose. The bonding of the group is what makes masterminding work. Out of this bonding there forms a whole which is greater than the sum of the parts. The mastermind forms a deeper creativity than the individual talents of the members. 8. Be Positive The most critical asset anyone can bring to the meeting is a positive, expectant attitude. 9. Buy In How are group members vested in the success of the group? What do they stand to gain? Do they have anything at stake or are they committed to your good? To what degree are group values or norms shared? 10. Facilitator This is optional, but I have found that groups tend to stay on purpose or on task when there is someone watching over the group process. You learn to facilitate by doing it. Would you like to learn more? For more information on how to start your own or join an existing Mastermind Alliance contact Greg at (760) 294-2117 or greg@zencoach.com. Greg Clowminzer is a Business and Life Coach serving the needs of individuals in their desire to live a higher quality of life with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose. Greg Clowminzer www.zencoach.com greg@zencoach.com (760) 294-2117

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