Serendipity is the art of making an unsought finding. ~ Pek van Andel
I used to have a boss that believed networking was “not working.” I could never understand that perspective and our relationship didn’t last long. You see, I believe in the power of connection. Of being interested in people and what they want for their own lives.
It is through connection with others that we often make happy discoveries; ones that we didn’t even know we were looking for. Ideas. Leads. Jobs. Relationships. One of my mentors, a great civic leader in our community, used to drill into my head that employing the power of connection could lead to spectacular results – the moment of serendipity that changes everything.
Recently, I listened to Joi Ito in a BBC interview where he described his personal success strategy as one where he does not plan everything meticulously but instead, employs a strategy of “serendipitous living” through a broad network of interesting people. Given that he was one of the backers of Twitter, I suppose this approach is not surprising. But let’s think about this for a moment….
What if we didn’t plan everything down to the last detail?
What if we concentrated on building networks of amazing people in our lives?
What if we connected with those people in meaningful ways?
What if we sat back and were present for what showed up?
What if we expected to be surprised by good fortune?
Hmmmm. Could a serendipity strategy be a way of creating the life we want?
I think I like it.
What do you think? Has serendipity ever touched your life in a meaningful way? Leave a comment and let’s flesh this out a bit. We might be on to something.
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Just read your recent postings. I find them enjoyable and thought provoking. I just see those wheels in your brain going faster and deeper into your own authenticity. It’s so hard for me to quiet myself and do that when I’m working and commuting and taking care of family matters etc.
I do believe in serendipity – absolutely, but is it really serendipity? maybe it is intentional but we can’t see that. Looking forward to an im-person talk. Keep it up.
J.
Thanks, June! That’s what I’m wondering … if there is an intentional way of encouraging serendipity. Looking forward to that talk!
Connections, waiting, surrender, spontaneity, hmmm sounds divinely feminine to me. You most certainly are on to something. Beautifully written.
Oh Dara … I love it. Thinking of this as something feminine hadn’t occurred to me but you are so right. Thank you!
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