Surround Yourself

Look around and identify the five adults you spend the most time with.  Think about what’s most important to them (their values), their level of success, what interests them, their energy level and anything else that comes to mind.  You are the average in all areas of the five adults you spend the most time with.  We naturally emulate those that are around us.  Here are some ideas about what to do with this information.

Idea 1:  Nothing.  After your review of who is around, you may be happy with what you see and not want to change a thing.  Good for you – keep nurturing those relationships.

Idea 2:  Upgrade.  If there are people surrounding you that have qualities you don’t want to emulate, consider adding new people that do have the qualities you would like to strengthen in yourself.  You don’t have to completely replace those that surround you, adding new individuals who you spend time with can compensate for what you do want to see in yourself.

Idea 3:  Negativity.  Everyone has a bad day now and then.  That said, some people wallow in negative thoughts – the world is against them, nothing is ever their fault, bad things constantly happen.  Negativity spills into every aspect of their lives.  Watch for that attitude spilling over onto you.  It’s extremely difficult to keep a sunny disposition when you’re constantly hearing about the doom and gloom of someone else.

Idea 4:  Distance.  If you find there is someone who is bringing down the average, start to distance yourself from that person.  Over time spend less time and energy with the individual.  You may find that they start to cling to you or object to your distance.  Stand your ground and fill up your life with people who have the success that you want.  There is only so much time in your day, spend it wisely.

Idea 5:  Support.  It’s important to surround yourself with individuals who are supportive of what you want and where you are going.  It’s especially important if you want to make any changes in your life.  Many times those closest to you may not want to see you change – they are relying on the “old” you that they can depend on.  Surround yourself with those who want you to realize your dreams.

Idea 6:  Growth.  As you grow and evolve in your business and career, you may find that you outgrow those around you.  This can happen when others aren’t choosing to develop and expand their experiences.  You’ll know this is happening when the individuals become increasingly critical of what you are doing.  If they’re not interested in supporting your growth, they will do what they can to keep you just as you are now.  It’s more about them than about what you are doing.  Sometimes your success can be a reminder to others of what they aren’t accomplishing.  Keep on your path to success and find those that will help you with that growth.

What’s the average of those around you?  Are you satisfied with that?  Do you want more than those around you?  Share your ideas below.

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