The Importance of Surrounding Yourself With the Right People (And Harmful Effects of the Wrong People)

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” This well-known quote by Jim Rohn serves as a powerful reminder of how deeply our inner circle influences our lives. Whether we realize it or not, the people around us shape our thoughts, behaviors, and aspirations. They can uplift us toward our goals or hold us back from realizing our potential. That’s why choosing to surround yourself with the right people is one of the most important decisions you can make.

The Influence of Your Inner Circle

The people you spend the most time with can have a profound impact on your beliefs, habits, and overall outlook on life. Their attitudes and actions are contagious—positive influences can inspire you to aim higher, while negativity can pull you into a cycle of self-doubt.

Think about the energy someone brings into a room. Have you ever spent time with someone who radiates enthusiasm and optimism? Their presence can make you feel capable of taking on the world. On the other hand, being around people who constantly complain or criticize can drain your energy and cloud your perspective. It’s not just about feeling good; it’s about creating an environment that nurtures your growth.

Lessons From Personal Experience

One of the most transformative experiences of my life happened in college when I joined an entrepreneurship organization. It wasn’t just about learning skills or gaining professional connections—it was about the people. I met some of my best friends through this group, individuals who pushed me to dream bigger, work harder, and become the best version of myself. Their belief in me and their own drive for success were contagious, shaping who I am today.

Recently, I experienced a similar sense of connection at a dinner party I hosted in Sweden. Surrounded by dreamers from all walks of life, we shared stories, visions, and goals. The energy in the room was electric, and their encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue my own dreams. Moments like these remind me that the right people don’t just inspire—they empower you to take action on what matters most.

In contrast, I’ve also experienced the stifling effect of being in the wrong circle. There were times when I found myself surrounded by negativity—people who made me feel dismissed, brought me down, and created a toxic environment. I convinced myself it was ‘okay’ or ‘normal,’ even as I cried myself to sleep. It wasn’t until I stepped away from those relationships that I realized how much they had been weighing me down. Letting go of that negativity wasn’t easy, but it was necessary to create space for the right people in my life.

 Right Circle

Building the right circle of people requires intention and effort. The first step is to identify your values—what truly matters to you? By understanding your priorities, you can seek out people who align with your vision.

Next, look for inspiration. Join communities or groups where people are actively pursuing growth and positivity. For example, I created the Global Dream Team Community for dreamers and doers to connect and inspire one another. It’s spaces like these where you’ll find the energy and motivation to push yourself further.

Finally, be proactive. Building meaningful relationships takes time and effort. Reach out to people who inspire you, attend events that align with your passions, and don’t be afraid to ask for mentorship or collaboration. The right people are out there—you just have to be willing to find them.

The Ripple Effect of the Right People

When you surround yourself with the right people, the impact extends beyond your own life. You grow as an individual, but you also contribute to a collective energy of empowerment. With the right relationships, success becomes a shared experience, and every win feels like a group celebration.

On a personal level, being around the right people challenges you to think bigger and take bolder steps. They inspire creativity, offer support during challenges, and celebrate your victories as if they were their own. Together, you become stronger, more resilient, and more capable of achieving your dreams.

Conclusion

The people you surround yourself with are not just companions—they are co-creators of your life story. They shape your beliefs, your actions, and ultimately, your future. By intentionally choosing people who inspire, challenge, and uplift you, you create an environment where growth and success become inevitable.

So, ask yourself: Who in your life inspires you to grow? Who challenges you to dream bigger? And who might it be time to let go of? Surround yourself wisely, and watch how your world transforms.