There’s a saying that you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. I also like this scripture:
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harms.
Proverbs 13:20 NIV
And whether you’re trying to build a successful business or just get your life together, the people that around you will impact you positively or negatively on that journey. They’re going to either help you get there (faster) or slow you down or steer off that path completely, so it’s really important to identify who you share your time and energy with.
Supportive People
This can be a spouse or significant other, friends, family, coworkers…doesn’t matter. Any or all combinations as long as they’re supportive. Support can come in many ways. They can attend your events, buy your products or services, tell others about your products/services. Encourage your life goals and cheer you on. Join you on your weight loss journey, or help you by treating you to the healthier food options rather than pigging out on fast foods.
Mentors
Officially or unofficially, mentors are also a good point of support. But they differ from your family and friends support in that they don’t need to buy what you’re selling. In the business realm, mentors tend to be people you look up to, people that have already accomplished the things you would like to and can offer guidance on the steps for you to elevate and also help you see in advance some of the hurdles you may face. They’re also there sometimes to be that tough love that you need to keep going. Sometimes our friends just can’t do that for us and that is okay.
You
Initially when I started writing this, I was thinking I’d go with a top 5, but really, you don’t need five. You and your authentic self is the most important person needed in order for you to be successful. You have to show up for yourself when family, friends and partners can’t (or won’t). You have to be there to catch yourself when you fall, because you will stumble and fall on your journey. Smooth sails never made for a skilled sailor. You have to come to yourself prepared, having identified your personal strengths and weaknesses, self-care strategies (no, not ordering random stuff from Amazon), playlists for all the moods.
You could have all the best people around you, but if you don’t show up and do the work for yourself, it all means nothing. Too often, we make promises to everyone including ourselves, but too often the first promises we break are the ones we make to ourselves. Break the cycle. Build up the trust and discipline in your inner self. Do the things you said you would do. Work towards becoming the person 15-year old you said you would be.
Life of Neu 