Soar Higher

Surround Yourself with Catalysts for Growth and Success

"You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." — Jim Rohn

This powerful statement by Jim Rohn often gets lost in translation, obscured by the intricacies of mathematics and the fleeting pleasure of setting standards. However, it's a profound truth that resonates deeply when we consider the impact of our social circle on our personal growth and aspirations. For those who find motivation in avoiding the pitfalls rather than chasing the highs, let's delve into a couple of transformative insights.

Imagine you're trying to avoid catching the flu. What's the most logical step? You steer clear of those already infected. This scenario is a perfect metaphor for the influence of your peer group. In a group, it takes just one person with 'the flu' of negativity or complacency to affect the rest. If you're striving to elevate your standards, scrutinize your circle meticulously. Ensure that no one in your peer group is metaphorically 'infected.' High-standards individuals tend to distance themselves from the 'sick,' waiting for them to leave the room before making an appearance. This decision – to be perpetually 'sick' or to be 'vaccinated' for life against negative influences – rests squarely in your hands.

Choosing your friends is not a task to be taken lightly. It's often more challenging to break away from people you've outgrown than to escape the constraints that have always held you back. These lifelong chains have been a hindrance, while the people you've outgrown may have contributed to your current level of success. However, it's crucial to recognize that their inability to grow alongside you shouldn't be a barrier to your continued ascent. If your heart soars like an eagle, yearning for greater heights, then it's imperative to adjust your social altitude accordingly.

The Impact of Your Inner Circle on Business Success

Adjusting your social altitude is not just a personal endeavor; it extends into the realm of business and entrepreneurship as well. In my observations and experiences as an investor and business philosopher, I've witnessed firsthand how businesses can falter, not merely due to market conditions or strategy missteps, but significantly due to the static nature of the founder's inner circle. It's a common pitfall for growing founders to cling to relationships that were instrumental in initial successes, yet these very relationships can become impediments to scaling new heights.

I've seen businesses not only stumble but collapse entirely because a founder failed to recognize that the people who were part of their initial success story hadn't evolved in tandem with the business. This stagnation isn't just about skill sets or industry knowledge; it's about mindset, adaptability, and the ability to embrace change. When a business evolves, its needs transform, and so must the people driving it. Holding onto relationships that no longer serve the business's growth trajectory is akin to anchoring a ship that's meant to sail to new horizons.

More intriguingly, and perhaps even tragically, I've observed founders repeat this cycle. After a business failure, they regroup with the same inner circle, fueled by nostalgia and memories of past glories. This failure to critically evaluate and refresh their team reflects a disconnect. They overlook that while they achieved success together in the past, they failed to grow past the points of failure. It's a classic case of mistaking familiarity for effectiveness, comfort for competency.

In the dynamic and often unforgiving world of business, this is a critical error. The people around you, especially in a high-stakes environment like entrepreneurship, need to be more than just familiar faces; they need to be catalysts for growth, innovation, and resilience. The mantra of surrounding yourself with people who lift you higher is not just about personal development; it's a strategic imperative for business success. As someone who constantly seeks the unique and outstanding in our everyday world, I believe that the key to transcending these failure points lies in embracing change, not just in strategies and models, but crucially, in the people we choose to take along on our entrepreneurial journey.

The Power of Your Social Circle

As we navigate through life, remember the impact of our associations on our mental and emotional well-being. Every day, we allow influences into our lives – through what we hear, see, and with whom we interact. These inputs shape our outputs. If we're feeling negative or dispirited, it might be time to audit our social circle.

Avoid the 'human GMOs' – the Greedy, Miserable, and Obnoxious. These individuals are toxic, draining your energy, and clouding your positive outlook. They're often not evil, just trapped in their cycles, but remember, their journey is not your responsibility. You have the power to distance yourself, to surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you.

In essence, if you continually associate with 'losers,' you risk adopting their traits. Instead, choose to spend time with people who encourage and empower you to become the best version of yourself. You deserve happiness, you deserve to be authentically you. Remember, you're the only constant companion in your life's journey. Life is too short for fake or negative friends.

As you reflect on these thoughts, ask yourself: Who are you hanging out with? Are they the wind beneath your wings, helping you soar like an eagle, or are they keeping you grounded, unable to reach your full potential? The choice is yours. Choose wisely, and let your life's flight be majestic and high.