Who you surround yourself with can influence:
- your energy
- your attitude
- how you spend your time
- the decisions you make
- your self image
- your perspective on life
- your view of the world itself
This is why it’s so important to be mindful of the company you keep.
The adage is absolutely true:
“You become the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”
Your friends and colleagues who want you to do great things are the ones who empower you and push you to become your best self. They inspire you to raise your standards and to believe in yourself. When you spend time with them, you feel better for it.
Alternatively, we all have people in our lives who complain, make excuses, blame others for their circumstances and view everything through a scarcity driven or negative lens. They make poor choices and if you hang around them, they create problems for you. In short, they are bad company.
“Great company in a journey makes the way seem shorter.”
– Izaak Walton
Table of Contents
Are the people you spend time with great company?
- Are the connectors?
- Are they selfless?
- Are they abundant?
- Do they keep their promises?
- Are they supportive?
- Are they honest?
- Are they solution oriented?
- Are they a great influence?
- Do they sincerely care?
1. They Are Connectors
They connect you to great people in their network who they feel you should know too.
They introduce you in an authentic way that immediately builds rapport and is met with a responsive, warm welcome.
2. They Are Selfless
They make time for you. They are highly engaged when you spend time together and they are more interested in you than talking about themselves.
The relationship is mutually balanced and mutually beneficial.
3. They Are Abundant
They share invaluable insights, experiences, expertise, and advice abundantly.
They generously share their time and expertise.
Their glass is not half empty or half full. It’s refillable!
4. They Keep Their Promises
They follow through on their promises. If they are unable to, they inform you right away.
Their honor is as good as their word. They believe that following through is a pillar of a trusting relationship.
5. They Are Supportive
They do not judge even if they have a differing opinion or perspective.
They are eager to understand your perspective and opinion.
They welcome differing points of view and believe that diverse thinking leads to better outcomes.
6. They Are Honest
They are honest with their thoughts and feelings. Their honesty is kind and endearing.
They have developed an ability to share constructive feedback in a graceful way that builds trust and upmost respect in your relationship.
They have unwavering integrity, and you know that they will be truthful with you.
7. They Are Solution Oriented
They see problems or challenges as opportunities. They focus on the possibilities, instead of complaining, blaming, or criticizing.
They focus on productive, positive ways that they can improve or be part of the solution.
Their mantra is: “If I’m unwilling to do something about it, I have no right complaining about it.”
8. They Are a Great Influence
They make you want to be a better person. They encourage you to grow, learn and make choices that help you achieve your goals.
They have positive habits that demonstrate a healthy way of life in all areas including– relationships, health, wealth, family, fun, spirituality and community – both professionally and personally.
They are continually learning and growing, and they help you grow. They make you feel empowered, refreshed, sharper and smarter for being around them.
9. They Sincerely Care
They are the people in your life that appreciate you for who you are and support your goals and ambitions.
They are happy for your success and achievements. They will have your back and be the wind beneath your wings when things do not go as planned.
They are the first to encourage you to keep doing great things.
Their care isn’t dependent on proximity either. Even when you cannot meet them regularly or you have to be away for months or years, their concern is undiminished. You will always feel that they think of you and look out for your best interests.
You can tell that you keep good company when they regularly check on you. When you’re having a rough day, they’ll go out of their way to make you feel better. If your friend is having a tough time adjusting to a new city, sending a gift basket of wine and treats will surely bring a smile to their face and make the coming weeks easier.
Conclusion
Ultimately, you become as good or as great as the people you surround yourself with, so be deliberate about who you let in your circle!
To show your appreciation to your staff, you can give out employee recognition awards. You can even send these to clients as well.
If you’re seeking ways to connect with other great people who share the characteristics we discussed, consider joining a Whetstone Board of Advisors. Whetstone is a life-changing community where you can collaborate alongside other great people. Learn more today!