About nine months ago I created a Mastermind group. Even though I have a business coach, I wanted to be held accountable by someone in addition to my coach – it is too easy to tell one person you did not reach your goal, but harder to tell two or more people the same! Also, I wanted advice and input from others who did not wear a coaching hat. Keep in mind, just like any group, a mastermind may experience some not-so-fun issues; however, these should be rare if you have a cohesive group.

So, why create a mastermind? It’s more than accountability and advice. There is a sense of something bigger when you have other like minded business owners gathering to help each other. You no longer feel like you are in your business all alone. You give and get advice on marketing strategies, personnel issues, administrative matters and more.

My group meets two times per month via conference call. It is convenient and each call is filled with action and motivation. One of the other women in my group worked with me to create our purpose. Here are a few of the key bullet points that describe our mastermind.

• Offer each other advice and support for the challenges presented
• Build relationships with each other so that we are comfortable providing leads or introducing members to possible business partners
• Offer third party objective insight on ways to reach our stated goals
• Hold each other accountable for taking action
• Offer a safe environment to express our business successes and concerns

Make a short list of a few business professionals that you respect. Contact them and ask if they would like to participate in a mastermind group with you. Your group should meet at least two times per month. A mastermind works just as well via conference call as in-person (and saves travel time too).