"It is important to surround yourself with people who life you up, encourage you, share your vision and inspire you."

Surrounding yourself with people who elevate, encourage, share your vision, and inspire you is key. It boils down to the idea that the company we keep profoundly affects our mindset, motivation, and overall success in life. Think about it: when you're around positive, driven individuals who believe in you, it's almost like you've got your own personal cheerleading squad, right? Their energy and enthusiasm can be contagious, pushing you to strive for more and reminding you of your potential, especially when you hit those inevitable bumps in the road.

Historically, this idea isn't new—it's been echoed by countless leaders and thinkers throughout time. Take the example of the Renaissance, where artists, scientists, and philosophers formed tight-knit communities to share ideas and support each other's endeavors. Think of how the Medici family in Florence created a hub for innovation by patronizing artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. They weren't just doling out cash; they were creating an environment where brilliance could flourish through mutual inspiration and support.

Now, let’s dive into a vivid real-life example. Imagine you're an entrepreneur starting a new tech company. You’re passionate and have some great ideas, but you’re not quite sure if they'll work. You decide to attend a startup incubator. There, you meet other entrepreneurs who are in the same boat as you. You form a small group where you regularly discuss your progress, share resources, and offer feedback. One day, one of your peers suggests a slight pivot in your product's approach—something you hadn’t considered before. Inspired and encouraged, you make the change, and it leads to your first major investor. The supportive environment fostered by this group of like-minded individuals helped you see new possibilities and gave you the confidence to take risks.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by taking stock of your current relationships. Are the people you spend the most time with lifting you up or dragging you down? If it’s the latter, it might be time for some tough decisions. Seek out new circles that resonate with your goals and values. This could mean joining clubs, attending workshops, or even just being more intentional about nurturing relationships that have a positive impact. And don’t forget to be that person for others, too. Encourage, inspire, and share your vision—it’s a two-way street.

Imagine this scenario: you’re training for a marathon. You have two options: train alone or join a running group. If you go solo, the early morning runs might start feeling like a chore. You might skip a day here or there; it’s easy to lose motivation when no one’s watching. But in a group, there's camaraderie. On those tough days, when you’re tempted to hit snooze, you remember that your friends will be waiting for you at the park. Their commitment fuels your own. You push each other, share tips, and celebrate milestones together. The collective energy makes the entire experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.

In essence, the people we choose to be around can either propel us to new heights or hold us back. By consciously surrounding ourselves with those who uplift and inspire us, we create an environment where success is not just possible but probable. It’s not just about personal gain—it’s about building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.