Joining a Legatus Forum - "What's in it for you?"

The question sounds selfish at first…but I’ve come to see it in a different light, that it’s really a practical question and calls for an answer.

That we do things for our own reasons is an empirical principle of motivation. We ask ourselves before taking action how a supposed outcome might benefit us. What’s in it for me… to attend a meeting, to join a board, or hire someone? The reasons have to be our own. Anything less makes our pursuit of an outcome questionable.

As Legatus members, we navigate oceans of decisions daily; we have our own framework for making decisions that focus on predicted gains and losses. What’s in it to join a forum? Others’ answers can be helpful, but we have to arrive at our own. I’ll share mine at the end but first, here are some that members across the country have offered:

“I’ve developed a strong bond with women I deeply admire and trust; we’re growing in love and faith.”

“I can better integrate my faith and work; I’ve learned a lot in our confidential setting, like different management instincts and approaches...”

“I express my hopes, fears, failures, and successes more honestly than ever. I’ve learned to focus on what I’m supposed to do in my life in my short time here.”

“I’ve gained great friends who, when the world tells me my Catholic beliefs are old-fashioned, stand by me; they’re a sounding board for problems I’m facing.”

“The women in my forum are such a gift! They’ve become close confidantes and incredible role models for me on how to live my Catholic faith!”

“My forum has taken my Legatus friendships to a deeper level.”

“We have such a variety of skill sets in our forum: spiritual, financial, parental, and more. I’ve learned a lot from my forum brothers.”

“I love our Legatus meetings, but our forum goes much deeper than we ever could at a meeting.”

So, what’s in it for me?... “The chance to engage in mutual iron-sharpening so one day I hear those consoling words, “Well done, good and faithful servant…” That’s what’s in it for me.

How about you?

MIKE MCCARTNEY and his wife, Molly, are members of The Genesis Chapter. He has served on the National Board of Governors, and currently works with Legatus to help launch and strengthen Forums.