The Power in an Aligned Group

by Cari Cole

I used to have a phobia about joining groups. Everything about it repelled me. I wanted to run for the hills rather than being with other artists or people trying to be successful. I guess it’s because I don’t want to waste my time, and up until then, most groups I found myself in had been a waste of time. I think I was in the wrong groups.

Because what I’ve experienced in the past 3 years is the opposite. When you find the right group, (I’m going to get a little woo-woo now) — there is a collective energy that I am convinced, pushes you forward. I understand that might be a little much for some of you, but that is exactly what I notice. I swear more progress happens together (when it’s the right bunch of people) than when you are alone. Maybe it’s cause you’re more focused, or because you have other people to answer to. Whatever it is, it works.

I’ve been in a mastermind now for the past 3 years. Actually year two, I was in a special program with my coach that didn’t include the mastermind and this year (year 3) I ran right back into it – surprisingly to me, I really missed the group – but more than the individuals, I missed the power of the group.

Here’s what’s possible:

1. To reach higher than you could on your own. Watching others in the group achieve big things is not only inspiring, it’s motivating – if they can do it so can you.
2. To stop whining and feeling sorry for yourself. In a group, complaints seem to magically fall away – I think it’s a natural result of being in action!
3. If you fall, someone is there to catch you. This one is a big one. There’s nothing like being with people who don’t feel sorry for you when you have tough times – because they admire you – and who catch you when you fall. Makes getting up so much easier and faster.
4. To zoom ahead of the pack. Not only are you not alone, you get the benefit of 10+ other people’s career mistakes and the energy of their wins for yourself.
5. Results. In the groups I’m in (or lead) there is a climate of professional camaraderie where everyone wants each other to win. As a result, no stone is left unturned, and the results grow by leaps and bounds. No more relying on pats on the back from friends and family – the real truth gets results much faster.
6. You achieve more than you ever thought you could. In my masterminds I’ve witnessed people come in with their dreams and then actually achieve them. That alone is worth the price in admission for what it does for your mindset and your career. There is something about watching others win that paves the way for you.
7. You naturally rise up. I’ve also noticed that everyone in the group seems to rise up to the highest denominator. This is similar to #6, but slightly different. I think it’s because there is something energetic to the group itself. Even the lowest point rises up.

If you want to zoom your music career forward, start thinking about the possibility of joining a group. If you’re interested in finding out about my mastermind, email us at info@caricole.com (put Mastermind! in the subject line) to be notified.

©2012 Cari Cole, Vocal Mag, Inc. All Rights Reserved.