Be the fixer.
If a client or a friend has an issue, be the fixer.
Whether you get paid or not, be the fixer.
No matter if it benefits you or not, be the fixer.
Answer the questions. Provide the resources. Make the introductions.
Always think in terms of solutions, focusing on what you can do to make their life better, whether marginally or immeasurably.
To aid you in this mission, you should know your subject matter hands down – and then bring in the team to complement your knowledge and experience.
That is the formula for a life of service, and a life well lived.
Let me offer an example.
Recently, I was introduced to someone who had a unique situation. At first, he was reluctant to open up and talk about any issue I proposed. That is, until I asked a couple of pointed questions that lead us down a path, eventually exposing a glaring weakness in his financial strategy. We’d discovered an area of need, not previously talked about, but one which I’d suspected.
After 15 or 20 minutes of asking more questions and verifying what I said was correct, he finally engaged.
So often, we approach a conversation with what WE want out of it, what WE need. Or, even worse, a chance to boost our ego by proving that we’re the expert. We talk instead of listening and even prep what we’re going to say next while others are talking.
Take my word for it; that will get you nowhere.
Instead, lead with the attitude of “What can I do for someone else?”
This applies both professionally but also with your personal relationships.
Ultimately the results will be what you want – or far more meaningful than you even could have imagined: a new client, a new friendship, the chance to build trust and make a real difference in someone’s life.
When you’re the fixer, there’s no limit to the good you can do, and the world is full of bright opportunities.
And it all starts with fixing your own viewpoint and attitude first.
The rest will follow.
-J.D.