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Have you heard of the “six degrees of separation” theory? The idea that any two people on Earth are connected by a string of no more than six other individuals?

When you work internationally, that number quickly dwindles. By a lot, I reckon.

I came to think of this as I heard from a former colleague who recently had engaged in diplomatic discussions with leaders in one of the world's current hot spots.

It's humbling to think about being just one degree separated from individuals who are making a tremendous mark on the world right now - for better, and for worse.

And it's not just about being connected to movers and shakers. I'm thinking about all my clients and colleagues I've worked with over the years, some of whom have invited me into their homes to share a meal with their family and friends.

We're all connected now.

In an international career, the web of connections quickly becomes mind-boggling. One colleague gets reassigned, and suddenly, your connections multiply. And you didn't even do anything!

Fascinating, isn't it?