No one should ever make a decision in a vacuum. As you progress closer and closer to your goals, however, it becomes more difficult to find people whose advice and counsel are appropriate.

One of the keys to seeking counsel is to never ask someone’s advice if they don’t already have what you are trying to obtain as you pursue your goals. It is not critical that they be on the same path, but it is vital that they share the critical elements of your success.

Recently, in an interview, Tiger Woods revealed that he, Charles Barkley, and Michael Jordan speak either in person or on the telephone a minimum of once a week. They have found that they share life challenges relating to athletic performance, financial success, and living in the public eye. The fact that Tiger Woods is a golfer and Michael Jordan a basketball player is really not important relating to these areas of mutual interest.

Whether these high-performing athletes realize it or not, they have formed a mastermind group. A mastermind group is nothing more or less than a group of like-minded individuals who are dealing with the same obstacles and challenges. Recently, I formed such a group with four other colleagues from the speaking profession. We all speak on slightly different topics and move in varied circles; however, when it comes to the basic day-to-day challenges surrounding the growth and success of our businesses, we are each in the same game. We set our own rules, and we each establish our own goals. We depend on one another for honest feedback and accountability.

I would encourage you to find several like-minded individuals who are traveling on the same road or at least a similar road toward success, and form your own mastermind group. The dividends you will both give and receive can be immeasurable.

Today’s the day!