By Karen
"Refusing to be ordinary" is a sentiment I wrote on Facebook in my second year of university. I remember that status clearly. The reason was rather shallow at the time—during those years, I was working and studying simultaneously, juggling part-time jobs, classes, and exam prep for graduate school. I was working tirelessly day and night, yet some people around me kept upgrading to the latest iPhones and iPads. Perhaps it was inferiority that drove me—I didn't just envy them, I was jealous. So I wrote that phrase with a sense of resentment.
Eight years have passed, and that sentence left a deep impression on me. Back then, I couldn't break into other social circles. But over these years, through reading, writing, and practical work experience, I've accumulated efficiency and strength. I discovered something remarkable: some people I once found difficult to approach, or who didn't believe in me, now began to listen, share openly, and even ask me for advice on their problems.
It wasn't until I heard Katrina's speech and watched a video she shared that I truly understood the principle: "Networking requires peers of equal standing." Only when you become strong enough do you have the capability to engage in meaningful conversations with accomplished people. When both parties share similar perspectives, the exchange becomes mutually enriching, rather than a one-sided contribution from one party.
That video also conveyed another truth: "The reason I work so hard is not for myself, but so that people I know will continue to know me. When you lack ability, money, or status, even those who once knew you will forget you. But when you become someone of standing, even those who didn't know you will claim to know you."
This reminds me of how journalists actually have their own "inner circles." Sometimes when there's a missing story or a need for contacts, they help each other out. Everyone in the group can contribute something different. If an outsider wants to join, they'll likely feel out of place. People might even form smaller circles to discuss more personal matters. No one wants to become worse; everyone wants to maintain or improve their position. Therefore, figuring out how to fit in with excellent people matters more than forcing yourself to adapt.
This is why improving your capabilities becomes so important. Though the term is broad, I believe there are several concrete keys: "setting goals." If you're building networks and particularly want to connect with someone influential but feel out of reach, I suggest first understanding their background, interests, and areas where you could potentially help them. Once you set this goal, gradually build your strength through books, online content, and offline communities. Recognize that nothing happens overnight. Use a "one introduces one" approach—start by connecting with smaller networks in the orbit of major influencers, and have them recommend you through word-of-mouth marketing. This way, it becomes much easier to strengthen those relationships.
