Remember last week when I told you I started reading a new book? You must be on the edge of your seat so I’ll give you an update: I’m still reading it. It hasn’t been relegated to the ghost town of books I never finished on my nightstand.
I’m about halfway through now. I’d like to share another tidbit I found useful. (For those of you who didn’t read last week’s email: shame on you. The book is Lean Learning by Pat Flynn.)
In Chapter 3, Pat talks about the Power of Champions and he breaks them into 4 categories.
The 4 Types of Champions:
Family and Friends
Your core cheerleaders. They often provide the emotional fuel to keep you going, even when progress is slow.
Mentors / Coaches
The experienced guides who offer strategic feedback and help you course-correct when you wobble.
Peer Champions
Like-minded learners walking the same path. Great for mutual accountability and celebrating small wins together.
True Believers or Community Champions
These are people who sincerely believe in your mission, such as community members, teammates, customers/patients, or early adopters who support you because they believe in what you’re building.
Flynn emphasizes that surrounding yourself with a combo of these champions helps turn fleeting motivation into sustained action.
I’ve been collecting smart people like troll dolls. Some I call, some I meet up with, and some I simply admire from afar. This gave me a little nudge to keep building that collection.
-Ann Dosen