Hello, BNI Tampa Family!

Today, let’s talk about preventing Benign Neglect in our relationships within BNI and beyond.

Think back to your school days, where you had your besties, your friends for life. But as life progressed, you moved, changed jobs, and those friendships may have faded. This phenomenon, called Benign Neglect, happens when we inadvertently let relationships drift away due to lack of regular contact.

Dr. Ivan Misner, Founder of BNI, describes Benign Neglect as allowing someone or something to move to the back of our minds, making space for others to step closer.

In BNI, we combat this by meeting weekly and engaging in activities like one-to-ones, which keep us connected and prevent relationships from weakening.

But it’s not just about BNI; it’s applicable to all aspects of life.

When we lose regular contact with friends or clients or even previous Members of our Chapter due to distance or changes in circumstances, it’s crucial to take deliberate action to maintain those relationships.

For instance, Richard Foulkes, a BNI Director Consultant, makes it a habit to call one friend a day whom he no longer sees regularly. It’s small actions like these that keep connections strong and prevent Benign Neglect from setting in.

So, what can you do to prevent Benign Neglect in your life?

Start by making a conscious effort to stay connected.

Whether it’s scheduling regular calls, sending a quick message, or meeting up whenever possible, prioritize nurturing your relationships.

Remember, relationships require effort to thrive.

By staying proactive and intentional, we can prevent Benign Neglect from weakening the bonds within our BNI Tampa Family and beyond.

Thank you for your attention, and let’s continue to support each other and grow together in BNI Tampa!