Building your own personal network for support is actually quite simple. During the process of building your network you will also empower your self to greater things than you might of thought possible.
Building the right network takes common sense and a little effort but it pays off big! Common sense would tell you that if you wanted to find a new hair salon you would not ask for a referral from a person who has frizzed out and badly styled hair.
No, you would seek the opinion of someone whose hair you admired. It is the same concept when building your personal support network.
A good personal support network consists of other people who have been where you want to go and are successful. In the beginning, your network may be fairly small depending upon the needs you have right now.
How to Build Your Network
1 Identify what type of support you need
2 Look within your established group to see if anyone fits the bill
3 Investigate further resources, like the internet, etc, for people who are already blazing a trail for you
4 Make contact with as many people as you can
5 Keep a list of those that are already successful in the area you desire to be
6 Ask for help
7 Follow up regularly with those who are willing support or mentor you
For the most part all of these suggestions have no monetary cost involved so all they take is time to establish. You have to be willing to be persistent and also to know when a potential resource is not likely to be a good match for you.
In this case, remember to be kind and thank them for their time because you never know if some day in the future you may run into them again.
For others, finding and building your personal support network may require you to look into counseling or life coaches. They do charge a fee but it may very well be worth it.
Studies have shown that being "pro-active" and seeking advice and support from others who have already become successful creates a more positive mind set. Make sure that you listen to your gut and only allow those who give you a positive outlook to become part of your personal support network.
Once you start allowing positive people and experiences into your life you will be surprised at the dramatic change in your sense of empowerment.