“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” — Jim Rohn
We probably all grew up being told that the people around us define us.
Regardless of how we responded back then when we were kids, with an eye-roll here and a sigh there, we’re grown up now. And what we were told could not have been more true.
Whether we liked it or not, we are who we hang out with. That means we all need to be accountable and take responsibility for the way that other people influence us.
Are You Choosing Wisely?
There’s nothing more important than surrounding yourself with people that lift you up, get you motivated, and keep you grounded.
These rules aren’t just for your personal life. They’re for your professional life, too. In your career, this can be thought of as networking best practices.
Having strong, healthy, and positive relationships can help you conquer the impossible. For me, the people around me create a flow or force that allows me to feel like I can do more than I ever thought I could do myself. It’s been my secret sauce. Haven’t you noticed that successful companies often stem from a duo?
A 2008 study on social support revealed how impactful a social network can be. People stood at the base of a steep hill. The ones that were alone rated the hill as much steeper than ones that were facing the challenge with friends.
In other words, choosing your friends wisely can help you attain your dreams and drive an impact in your world. There’s much more on the line than just a temporary win.
Five Negative Qualities to Avoid
Let’s be frank. Not everyone has your best interests in mind. If you’re a go-getter, you can’t be naive and let others influence your momentum.
These are some qualities to avoid in people:
- Someone who spends too much time judging others
- Someone who gets down on people
- Someone who complains instead of taking action
- Someone who tries to stifle or control your creativity
- Someone who drags you down
Five Good Qualities to Look For
These qualities can identify someone who is good for you, your career, and your life:
- Someone you aspire to be like
- Someone with a great mojo
- Someone motivational and positive
- Someone who is always looking at the glass as half full
- Someone who practices gratitude
The Art of Setting Boundaries
Sometimes, we can’t always kick people out of our lives just because they aren’t meeting the standards we want them to.
Whether it’s a family member, a personal relationship, or a coworker situation that you just can’t change — try and set healthy boundaries. Learn how to say “no” when something doesn’t serve you. Don’t get peer-pressured or guilted into something you don’t want to do.
Be authentic and explain to them what your needs are. If this person can understand how you operate, you may be able to work something out to everyone’s benefit. But if you don’t try — you’ll be stuck in the abyss.
Cleaning up your social sphere isn’t easy, but the rewards are great.
So get out there and build your team. Find your tribe. Do it all, but do it wisely. Make sure that the people you’re getting involved with are helping you attain your goals, find success, and live a happier life.
What’s your take on all this?
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