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The Value of Local Community in Business

This week has been one of the most challenging and at the same time, most rewarding weeks I have had in business. Balancing family commitments, running a successful business and keeping fit and healthy in my mind, body and spirit, takes a lot of planning and discipline at the best of times. This last week my wife has been in hospital having many tests and procedures and will be there for another couple of weeks. Whilst my priority lies with family, everything else still needs to be done, and planning alone will not get it over the line. The priceless support we have received from family and friends has been equalled by the outstanding business community of the Macarthur region.

We have been playing the waiting game for a few months, going to and fro the doctors surgery, eagerly looking forward to a specialist appointment to see some go forward in my wife’s condition. Last Wednesday, whilst in an appointment with a new business associate, I mentioned a need to leave my phone on in our meeting as my wife was not doing very well. Showing a genuine interest in me, beyond our business relationship, Simon enquired about her condition. As if by divine intervention, through his wife working for a local surgeon, Paula had an appointment the next morning, was immediately admitted to hospital and had her first procedure that afternoon. Since that time she has improved dramatically and is now on the mend. This is a testimony of the value of building a business in your local community. The return on investment from local networking goes well beyond referrals and business opportunities.

Having one of the busiest weeks this year, I did not have to change one meeting or cancel any commitments. This was achieved through the generosity of people who cooked meals, picked up kids from school, played taxi for me or just offered good old fashioned prayer and encouragement. Facebook, Twitter, TXT messages, emails; all filled with messages that were encouraging and offering support. Social networking was also a brilliant tool for keeping people informed and updated.

As a Balance Coach, it is important I practice what I preach. I help people overcome a sense of hopelessness that comes from not having enough time, energy, skills or resources to be everyone they need to be. Without the people around me, I would have been way out of balance this week. On those days when you feel all alone, in business or in other areas of your life, take time to stop and remember you are in a community of people who care. Build your network based on more than referrals and business opportunities and you will experience what I did this week in my time of need.

Paula and I want to thank everyone of you for being a part of our support network this week. Some people think business is all about making money and being your own boss. Whilst it is these things, business is all about a community of everyday people, working together for the benefit of everyone.

Have an outrageously prosperous week. You deserve it!

Grant Herbert

The People Builder

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