Have you ever traveled to a new country and found yourself quickly adapting to different customs and accents? Or noticed how much easier it is to stick to a new workout routine when your spouse is fully on board?
It’s human nature: we are profoundly influenced by the people around us.
For better or worse, our social circles shape our behaviors, our beliefs, and yes, even our finances. If you spend your time with people who are struggling financially, there’s a strong chance you’ll find yourself in a similar position.
However, if your circle is filled with individuals passionate about earning more, building businesses, investing, and creating wealth, that reality can become yours too.
This is the power of positive influence, a force that can inspire and motivate us to reach new heights.
This isn’t just theory. Growing up, both my parents were business owners. I witnessed the ins and outs of entrepreneurship from a young age, even working in my mom’s business at the age of nine.
Recently, a client asked me, “Didn’t it scare you going into business for yourself?” My honest answer? It hadn’t even occurred to me that I couldn’t do it. It was simply assumed. The idea of working for someone else was a foreign concept.
Today, my husband and I are fortunate to have incredible friends who are also entrepreneurs. Our conversations are always dynamic, ranging from scaling companies and navigating hiring hurdles to exploring compensation strategies. These discussions have directly influenced our decisions, from how we structure our businesses to how we invest our profits. They undoubtedly shape how we conduct ourselves in our daily lives.
This underlines a powerful truth: you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
It’s not about judgment, but about being incredibly thoughtful about what you expose yourself to and who you allow into your inner circle. This means being mindful of the conversations you engage in, the media you consume, and the advice you follow. Surround yourself with positivity, with people who challenge and inspire you, and with information that supports your financial and personal growth.
Which begs the question: Who do you want to surround yourself with?
If you’re ready to cultivate a circle that elevates your financial journey intentionally, here’s how to start leveling up:
- Focus on What You Can Control: Direct your energy towards your own actions, attitudes, and goals. Develop yourself, take ownership, and approach challenges proactively.
- Build Strong Relationships: Actively connect, listen, and offer support to those who inspire you. But don’t stop there. Network effectively by joining relevant groups and building trust. This proactive approach to networking puts you in the driver’s seat of your personal growth, empowering you to shape your circle of influence.
- Lead by Example: Embrace a positive outlook, act with integrity, and share your knowledge and expertise. Your actions speak volumes.
- Expand Your Circle: Be proactive in seeking out new connections. But don’t just aimlessly add people to your circle. Set clear goals for who you want to learn from and spend time with, and then work towards building those relationships. This focused approach will ensure that your circle of influence aligns with your aspirations, keeping you determined and on track.
Surrounding yourself with people who are a positive influence, who cheer you on, and who genuinely want to see you succeed can make all the difference.
If you’re not where you want to be financially, what can you do today to change your circle of influence and shift your trajectory intentionally?
