From interacting with scores of soloists over the years, I've come to recognize a thinking pattern that often permeates our lives. It follows a spectrum that I call Steel or Honey. See where you may find yourself on the continuum.

Are You Steel?
Steel thinking is sharp, hard, decisive. It cuts through extraneous material and gets to the point. (Sorry for these unavoidable puns.) If you're on the steel end of the spectrum, there's not a lot of flexibility but projects get accomplished. This method is effective, but potentially painful if the person wielding the blade is not deft or experienced.

Or Are You Honey?
Honey is an approach that flows. Yes, it has a tinge of sweetness but not necessarily cloying. Honey by its nature can permeate cracks and crevices that steel may never reach -- or even find. If the environment is right, honey just keeps moving. It can also take on different forms and either stand alone or be part of something larger.

Now consider the soloists you know. Most are a mix of these two qualities, and it's not based on gender. Also, one trait is not inherently superior to the other. Sometimes it makes sense to use a steel approach; in other situations, honey can be much more powerful.

This analogy has its limitations, but I hope it gives you one more point of perspective on your life as a soloist. What does your work require today? A bit of steel or a dollop of honey?

-- Terri Lonier
Founder, WorkingSolo.com