TAKING A LIFE LEAP : Planning a project? With the right support, you’ll be able to achieve your goals

TAKING A LIFE LEAP 

Planning a project? With the right support, you’ll be able to achieve your goals, says Marina Gask

Are you contemplating a bold change in your life? Whether you’re planning an adventure, embarking on a new project or launching a business like I did, having people around who’ve got your back can totally make the difference between success and failure. But who can you rely on? It may not be the people you think. Here are five sources of support – people who will really ‘get’ what you’re doing and cheer you on every step of the way.

1 FIND A LIFE COACH

‘It’s great to have a sounding board to test out ideas, and a good life coach will ask the right questions to make you think more deeply about what you’re doing,’ says Chrissy Reeves. ‘Together you can tackle obstacles, explore what will make you truly happy and get clarity on what you want to do, how and why.’ Depending on your plans, you may need a coach who specialises in a specific area, like business, nutrition, finances or divorce. A good coach can be like gold dust, so make sure you look out for one who has undergone training accredited by the International Coach Federation, European Mentoring & Coaching Council or Association for Coaching.

2 CALL ON FRIENDS YOU CAN TRUST

‘Our nearest and dearest can feel threatened when we make big, brave plans. Being met with a quizzical look, a snigger, an awkward question or a critical comment from a parent, friend, partner or sibling can make us view things in a negative light. Our brain instantly assumes the worst and we can end up in a self-critical tailspin,’ says Chrissy Reeves. Find support among friends and loved ones who are genuinely enthusiastic about what you’re doing and don’t put you in a box, or from those who have been through a similar situation. They will appraise your ideas and help you solve problems from their own experience, rather than making you feel judged.

3 CRATE AN ACCOUNTABILITY GROUP

‘The wisdom and support of like-minded individuals can be a game changer. An accountability group meets regularly to share goals and discuss challenges and next steps. Members act as devil’s advocates and cheerleaders, boosting each other’s confidence and sharing every small “win”,’ says Debbie Gilbert. Create your own by bringing a group of like-minded people together, such as women who are all committed to running a marathon or writing a novel. You then meet once a month to discuss your goals and set monthly targets – being accountable motivates you to meet those targets. To find out how to start your own, go to leanin.org/circles.

4 USE SOCIAL MEDIA

‘You can get an incredible sense of camaraderie when you share an interest or cause through a social media group. And finding your people means lots of support, encouragement and advice – from all over the world,’ says Gilbert. There are thousands of online networks, and finding your ‘tribe’on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter is simply a matter of exploration, using different hashtags. You may feel too shy to interact, but engaging with people helps you keep moving forwards.

5 LOCATE A NETWORKING GROUP

‘When you’re doing a new thing, whether it’s self-publishing or learning to scuba dive, there are always people out there from whom you can learn. From crafting clubs to your local BNI chapter (Business Network International), once you’ve found the right network, you have advice, contacts and opinions on tap,’ says Gilbert. Research local networks and clubs to find one specific to your area of interest by using search engines, as well as checking out info at your library, church or leisure centre. Find out what’s available through meetup.com by exploring local news blogs and online platforms. Be prepared to try a few to find the network that can help you.