There is a very good chance you’re wondering what is captured in this picture to the right…any guesses? I’ll admit, probably not the most attractive subject, but I wanted to showcase one aspect of the object. Still not sure…it’s the roots to a huge tree as they cut in and out of the ground!
Have you ever stopped and stared at the amazing root system of a large tree? It seems to twist and turn, dig beneath grass and bushes, tunnel its way through concrete or gravel – nothing can seem to stop the powerful tree from spreading out in every direction. This particular tree was in the middle of a busy city, right along the edge of the road. It was sandwiched between black-top and sidewalk, in theory, leaving very little room to grow; however the tree was practically towering over the adjacent building. The roots most likely stretch half way across the street (where they could be met by the equally large tree growing along the other sidewalk) and smacked up against the foundation of the building 10 feet away.
I marvel at how nearly half of this living organism is buried underground, creating a system of “branches” equally as complex – if not more – than the ones seen above ground. So much happens that the naked eye never sees, yet is essential to the tree’s survival! Occasionally, we see a glimpse of this network when the roots burst their way through the ground or sidewalk, as the case with the tree pictured here. I try to imagine how the rest of the roots look as they twist and turn their way through dirt and around obstacles. How deep does everything go? Do the roots truly stretch out as far as the furthest branch?
Each business professional has to remember this lesson of a strong network. Everyone must have solid avenues of communication to receive and provide information – without it there would be very little success, just as without its root system the tree cannot survive. This network can be built of colleagues within your company, individuals that work at “supporting” businesses, or trusted friends. Whoever you choose, they will fill an important role.
How do you work on a regular basis to create and/or strengthen your network?
How far should you reach? It should be far enough to succeed, but maybe not too far into another “territory” as to interfere with someone else and distract you from your original focus?
Building a strong network takes time. This tree did not have roots strong enough to bust concrete immediately; it took years to develop just as it takes each of us awhile to reach our potential.
That’s the Golden Perspective…what’s yours?
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