Mastermind for Scaling Leaders: Unlock Your Business Growth
- (Admin) The Thrivology Company
- Sep 28, 2024
- 9 min read
Is a Mastermind the Missing Piece in Your Business Puzzle?
Hey lovely ladies,
Ever feel like you're navigating this entrepreneurial rollercoaster solo, even when surrounded by a crowd? You're smashing it, building your empire, but there's a niggling feeling… a sense that you could be soaring even higher with the right support. You're not alone, lovely – we get it. & honestly, who isn't craving that extra bit of lift? I’ve been there, building my business while juggling four kids, two energetic Miniature Pinschers (one’s a chilled elder stateswoman, the other a furry tornado!), & a PhD. Talk about organised chaos! I often joke that some days, I’m more referee than CEO! See, this is the reality of entrepreneurship for so many of us, isn't it? We're all just trying to make it work, especially when the cost of everything, from a block of cheese to childcare, seems to be skyrocketing while our wages stay stuck in the past decade. It's like we're running on a treadmill, putting in the effort but not seeing the financial gains we deserve. So, finding smart ways to work together, to share wisdom and support each other, becomes even more crucial. Join our Femme Connect community if you're craving connection & support before we dive in. It's absolutely free & full of amazing women just like you, all navigating similar challenges with creativity and resilience. https://www.femmeprenista.com/femmeconnect
Now, back to the main event… masterminds. Are they worth the hype, or just another shiny object distracting you from the real work? Let's unravel this, shall we?
More Than Just a Buzzword: Why Masterminds Matter for Scaling Leaders
For those of you who are actively scaling (my Scaling Leader-types), constantly pushing boundaries, & already seeing some serious traction – a mastermind can be a total game-changer. You know, like that moment when you realize you can finally afford that VA you've been dreaming of – suddenly, the possibilities feel endless! It’s not a magic wand, not by any stretch. It's more like… discovering that missing puzzle piece that suddenly makes the whole picture clearer, stronger, &, dare I say, more beautiful.
You see, as a Scaling Leader, you’re often in this weird in-between space. You’ve outgrown the “just starting out” phase, but you’re not quite ready for a full executive board. You're leading the charge, often feeling the weight of all the decisions, strategies, & systems on your shoulders. You know you need strategic guidance, that next-level push, but traditional consulting can feel impersonal & generic. What if, instead of just another expert opinion, you had access to the collective wisdom and lived experiences of women who are walking a similar path? Imagine brainstorming solutions with peers who understand the "caster oil on the carpet" moments and the strategic vision you're building. That, my friend, is the power of peer advisory.
This is where a mastermind shines. It's a space where you're not just learning from an expert (though that's valuable too), but also gaining insights, support, & accountability from a group of equally ambitious women who are on similar, though unique, paths. Finding my tribe within a supportive mastermind has been invaluable, though my own journey wasn't always smooth sailing. In one mastermind, the facilitator, while brilliant, focused heavily on mindset work (which, don't get me wrong, is foundational - my 'Focus' pillar is all about that!). However, I was craving more tactical, systems-focused strategies at that point in my business. It was a learning experience! Now I make sure to thoroughly vet the structure & content offered by any mastermind before investing – something I guide my Momentum clients through as well, because the right fit is everything.
Beyond Group Coaching: The Power of True Peer Advisory
Let's be clear: a mastermind is NOT "group coaching in disguise." There's a fundamental difference. Group coaching offers valuable support & a shared learning experience, no doubt. But a true mastermind is about peer advisory. It’s a space for brainstorming, strategic thinking, problem-solving, & accountability, driven by the collective wisdom & experience of the group. According to a study by the Association of Executive Search & Leadership Consultants, 82% of CEOs who participate in peer advisory groups report significant improvements in their decision-making & leadership effectiveness. Credible Source on Peer Advisory Benefits - If Available
I remember when I was trying to figure out how to scale my business while recovering from my fourth C-section (yes, fourth!) & juggling PhD research. It felt like trying to build a house of cards in a hurricane. Honestly, the exhaustion was next-level! What I craved was a trusted group of women who understood the unique pressures & challenges of scaling & the beautiful, messy reality of motherhood. Someone to say, "Girl, I get it. It's hard, but you're not alone." One thing I wish I'd known before joining my first mastermind was the importance of clear expectations around time commitment. While the content was fantastic, and I met some amazing women, I struggled to balance the weekly meetings and prep work alongside everything else on my plate – four kids, PhD research, and, you know, keeping the furry tornadoes from chewing the furniture! In hindsight, a bi-weekly or even monthly format with more flexibility, like access to recordings, might have been a better fit. Imagine a mastermind that truly adapts to your life, not the other way around. That's the kind of support we're all craving, isn't it? And let's be honest, who has the bandwidth for another commitment unless it's made super simple and truly impactful?
Choosing Wisely: Critical Questions to Ask Before You Invest
A mastermind is an investment, both financially & in terms of your precious time & energy. So, before you jump in, ask yourself these critical questions:
Does the mastermind's focus align with my specific growth stage as a Scaling Leader & business goals? If you're a Scaling Leader trying to build smart systems & attract high-value clients, a mastermind focused on basic business setup won’t cut it. It's like signing up for an advanced yoga class when you're still trying to master downward dog! For example, if your focus is on scaling your marketing efforts and implementing AI-driven strategies (hello, Fusion!), look for a mastermind that specifically addresses those areas.
What is the typical pricing structure for this mastermind (e.g., monthly fee, one-time investment)? How does this investment align with my current budget & projected ROI? What payment options are available? For instance, some masterminds require a significant upfront investment (like the $25k program I joined a few years ago - talk about stretchy!), while others offer more flexible payment plans. It's about finding what works for your financial flow.
What is the expected time commitment per month, including meetings, prep work, & any optional activities? How does this fit into my current schedule & other responsibilities? Don't forget to factor in the "hidden" time commitments, like catching up on recordings if you miss a live session (because, let's be real, life with kids and a business rarely goes exactly to plan!), or engaging in online discussions. Think about how much time you can realistically dedicate each week or month without adding to your overwhelm.
Is the facilitator experienced in guiding high-level strategic discussions & fostering genuine peer advisory? Or is it just a glorified group coaching program? Remember, you’re looking for a facilitator who can orchestrate collaborative problem-solving & facilitate deep, strategic thinking within the group, not just deliver pre-packaged content. For instance, a strong facilitator will ask powerful, thought-provoking questions, create a safe space for vulnerability, and skillfully guide the group's collective wisdom, rather than just lecturing from the front of the room (or Zoom screen!). You want someone who can draw out the brilliance in everyone and create those "aha!" moments that shift your perspective and unlock new possibilities.
Does the mastermind attract members who are my peers – women who are at a similar stage in their business journey, with compatible values & aspirations? The power of a mastermind lies in the synergy of the group. You want to be surrounded by women who inspire you, challenge you, & understand your unique perspective. After all, it is hard to be your most authentic self if you are constantly having to explain yourself. For example, if you're a Scaling Leader focused on tech-driven solutions and integrating AI into your business, a group of Foundation Builders might not be the best fit, even if they're lovely people.
Is there a clear structure & process for the mastermind, or is it a loose, unstructured gathering? A well-designed mastermind will have a clear framework for meetings, goal setting, accountability, & ensuring each member receives valuable support & guidance. Think about the kinds of systems that work best for you in your business – do you thrive on clear processes and schedules, or do you prefer more flexibility? Finding a mastermind that aligns with your preferred working style is key.
Does the mastermind foster a culture of genuine collaboration, support, & high-level connection? This is about more than just networking; it’s about creating a trusted space where you can share your challenges, celebrate your wins, & build meaningful relationships with women who are on similar paths. What I've learned is that true connection isn't about forced networking or superficial interactions – it's about genuine vulnerability and a shared commitment to supporting each other's growth. If the vibe feels competitive or superficial, it’s probably not the right fit.
Different Models, Different Benefits: Finding the Right Fit for You
Masterminds come in various flavours, from small, intimate groups to larger cohorts, from virtual gatherings to in-person retreats. There's no one-size-fits-all. The key is finding a model that resonates with your personality, your business needs, & your lifestyle. For instance, if you’re like me & constantly juggling family commitments, a virtual mastermind offering flexibility & access to recordings might be a lifesaver. If you thrive on in-person connection & deep immersion, a retreat-style mastermind could be your jam. I remember seriously considering joining a mastermind that involved monthly in-person retreats, but the logistics of coordinating childcare for four kids, including a toddler who's currently obsessed with climbing everything (yes, everything!), made it feel impossible at this stage. That's when I realized how much easier it was for some of my peers who either had older children or more local family support. That experience really drove home the point that the "right fit" isn't just about the content, it's about aligning with your current life stage and all the wonderful chaos that comes with it. So, my lovelies, find what truly works best for you.
From Isolated Leader to Supported CEO: The Mastermind Transformation
Remember that fable about the Little Red Hen? She worked so hard planting, harvesting, & baking, but no one wanted to help until the bread was ready. How many of us have felt that way in our entrepreneurial journey? Like we're doing all the heavy lifting alone, only for others to suddenly appear when the "bread" is baked and ready to share? A mastermind changes that narrative. It creates a space where you’re not the only one sowing the seeds, tending the fields, and baking the metaphorical bread. It's about sharing the load, the lessons, and the celebrations with women who get it.
One particularly challenging moment I faced in a mastermind was when we were brainstorming launch strategies for our respective businesses. I was feeling incredibly overwhelmed by the tech side of things – setting up landing pages, automating email sequences, all that jazz. I remember thinking, 'Oh my god, they're all so far ahead of me technically'. I almost didn't share my struggles, fearing I would sound like a "tech dummy." But then I remembered my dad's fierce advocacy for me at school, when he'd literally shout at teachers who tried to silence me. It reminded me of the importance of speaking up, even when it feels scary. So I took a deep breath, shared my tech overwhelm with the group, and you know what? Not only did I not sound like a dummy, but two other women confessed to feeling the exact same way! We ended up sharing tips, resources, and even collaborating on a tech solution that benefited all of us. That experience transformed my fear of being "behind" into a powerful opportunity for connection, collaboration, and learning.
For Scaling Leaders, who are often juggling so much & wearing all the hats, the right mastermind can be a game-changer. It's an investment in your growth, your sanity, & the future of your business. If you’re ready to take that next step, our Momentum Coaching program could be the perfect fit. It focuses on building those smart systems that free up your time and energy, attracting high-value clients, and mastering the mindset of a Scaling Leader. https://www.femmeprenista.com/momentum
Ready to Explore?
If this resonates, I’d love to hear from you. Share your biggest challenge as a scaling leader in the comments below. What’s that one thing you’re craving support with right now? And what does "freedom" look like for you in this season of your business and life? Let’s connect!
Carlene Nisbett
Founder & CEO, Femmeprenista (Coach, Mentor, Speaker)
Wife, Mother of four, Business Owner, PhD Researcher, Pet mom, Plant mom, 5'0" tall Passionate Multitasker & Wine Lover, You get the drift
P.S. This workbook is just the beginning!
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