I've made it a point to network (often virtually), as I'm too busy these days to hit conferences and stuff... I've recently found a mentor - someone who is in a related industry, is that "success story" I want to emulate, and has the passion to teach and share. I'm paying her an extravagant sum of money (gladly - as it forces me to do the things she sais - even the uncomfortable ones) each month, and it's working really well.

For me, I find it hard to trust people, as I tend to call bullshit on them, so it's taken me a long time. I've always surrounded myself with those people I desired to emulate, even if they had nothing to do with my industry. I believe I learnt alot through osmosis.

I think the key here for you is focusing on building relationships with people you admire. Be a person to them (don't puppy dog them or harass them), just chill and learn from them.

Be open (or propose) a mentoring relationship (I pay you to mentor me) with the right person.

Hope this helps.