I'm often heard talking about the importance of creating strategic partnerships. Having individuals who understand your vision and values for your business and personal life can be as powerful as having your own personal genie who utters the words, "Your wish is my command" daily . The old saying, "Two heads are better than one" refers the reality that challenges are often solved more easily by two people working together than by one working alone.

The same can be said for living out your passion. (Of course, it's important that these partners are also authentic connectors.....something I won't get into in detail, as you'll have to wait for the book Ursula C. Mentjes and I are writing to be released in the Spring.) There is power in numbers. If two or more people understand a concept, the forward motion of that idea has a greater chance to move ahead than if it were coming from only one person. Additionally, that forward motion can build momentum if there are even more individuals supporting that vision.

So, then, what is an upside impact partner? You already know that living on the upside is about finding the unlimited possibilities in your life and impact can be defined as "the power of making a strong, immediate connection". Most businesses look to make an impact on their customers and it is often done through the creation of a relationship using some form of emotional attachment. Upside impact partners aren't passive, they have a noticeable effect on the meeting of your mission in life. They are your cheerleader and confidate wrapped up into one. An upside impact partner or UIP is someone who understands your purpose and passion, your vision and values and carries your relationship with them in order to help you achieve all that you've envisioned for your life. UIP's are the people who not only believe in your amazing success but can be found standing in the bleachers, yelling, "You can do it!" even when you're not feeling like forward-thinking today.

I challenge you to make a list from 1 - 10 of all of the people who have made an impact in your life. How many of the people are still in your life? How many of them are fully aware of what you want from your life today? Do you have any UIP's currently helping you live out your vision? If you're having trouble thinking of someone, make a list of the 5 people who you'd like to recruit to be UIP's to help you achieve your dreams and the dates of when you will contact them. Remember, action, not goals, creates results. Best of luck on your upside journey!