You’re the product of the 5 people you spend the most time with.
We’ve all heard this theory – but have you ever actually stopped to reflect on what this means for you?
Now is the time to assess who you are surrounding yourself with, how this is affecting your success, and what you are giving back to the people around you.
Strong relationships are key to success
A key factor to success in your business will lie in the people you surround yourself with.
Author Dr. Brenѐ Brown believes this so strongly she once said, “I carry a small sheet of paper in my wallet that has written on it the names of people whose opinions of me matter. To be on that list, you have to love me for my strengths and struggles.”
And Oprah Winfrey also advises, “surround yourself with those who only lift you higher.”
So, have a think about the 5 people you spend the most time with.
Do these people, inspire, motivate, support, encourage and bring out the best in you?
If you answered no, then I’d suggest you find a new circle.
We all feed off the energy of the people around us, so why would you want that energy to be negative and possibly harming you?
Multiple research shows that negativity is incredibly harmful and contagious, and can lead to several unwanted side effects, such as:
weakened immune system
compromised ability to think clearly
negative impacts on your memory
Studies also show how the impact of our environment on our behaviour and success can really stop us from getting where we want to go. Essentially, with time, the negative effects of the company you keep will start to hinder you from achieving your ultimate goals.
Therefore, if you’re finding close people around you may be negatively impacting your success, you can mix it up by seeking a positive mentor, a friend, or a colleague that shares the same values and goals.
Of course, this works both ways. Have you ever really thought about how you are behaving or affecting the people around you?
President Obama wisely said, “if you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.”
If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room…
Another reason why it matters who we surround ourselves with, is because we must never get too stuck in our ways.
I firmly believe we are constantly learning and those that understand the power of knowledge and show up every day seeking more answers and improved ways of doing things, are the most influential people you will ever come across.
Therefore, it makes sense to surround ourselves with people who complement our own abilities, can fill in some gaps in our knowledge, and in return you can be sharing with them your knowledge and experience.
Supportive connections
The idea that you are the sum of who you surround yourself with still remains today because it’s true – and you can use it to achieve your dreams in business, and in life.
It might require stepping out of your comfort zone to connect with people that not only inspire you but challenge you. But it’s worth it as it can really help you to reach new heights of success and bring you to a feeling of contentment.
5 Ways to kick start a new influential circle
Put yourself out there! Go to that networking event, join the business Facebook groups and contribute to the conversations.
Upskill. Take a new course, learn a new skill. The more you learn, the more people you will meet who are also eager to grow and evolve like you.
Nurture those relationships. Teach and help people, and share your wisdom with no expectation of anything in return.
Find a mentor. The key is finding someone who brings out the best in you, adds value and helps you see things from a place you may not have considered before. They should challenge you and make you question your decisions. It could be a parent or a parent’s friend, a lecturer, another entrepreneur or a professional coach.
Be mindful and conscious of your energy. If you walk into a room or a conversation that just doesn’t feel uplifting, supportive or inspiring, then get yourself out of there and attract a higher vibration by spending more time with those who influence your energy in a positive way.
Looking for direction in your business or clarification in your career?
I hope these tips have helped you to feel more confident in your decision-making and overall success in your business and personal life.
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