SUBJECT: Surround Yourself with the Right People

Do you remember those wise words your parents shared about avoiding "the wrong crowd"? Well, here's the flip side — they might not have mentioned it, but surrounding yourself with "the RIGHT crowd" is a game-changer for success in anything you do.

There's an old saying that goes, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." And think about the wisdom in the African proverb, "It takes a village" — not just to raise a child, but to support adults on their journey too.

I truly believe in the tremendous power of community. Your success is intricately linked to the people you choose to spend the most time with. If you aim to thrive, spending time with winners will propel you much further than hanging out with sideline complainers. Successful people:

Make great role models. You gain invaluable lessons by being close to people who have achieved what you’re working toward.

Are great for networking. They know where the good stuff is and can help lead you to it.

Tend to be positive and promote a growth mindset. In a world full of negativity, avoid the Debbie Downers and surround yourself with positivity and high achievement.

Probably share your values and beliefs more than the naysayers.

Tend to support each other in lots of ways, big and small; they know there’s plenty of success to go around, and they’re happy when others reach milestones.

Your close community should be realistic. After all, mindless “support” is almost as detrimental as constant negativity. If you're ready to experience the wonderful support of a community that can and does uplift you, consider joining ours.