Look Around – Is Your Network Fueling Your Success?

In every area of life, from career growth to personal development, there’s one truth that stands out: who you know can be as important as what you know. Think about your own circle for a moment. Are your friends pushing you toward your goals, or are they keeping you exactly where you are?

Let’s start with a story – one that might sound familiar. A friend recently invited me to his wedding. Weddings can be a fascinating reflection of one’s network. There I saw people from all walks of life – some who had brought together a crowd of highly successful, affluent guests, while others didn’t seem to have these connections. It made me think, What sets these circles apart?

When we talk about networking, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we’re only talking about business, but it goes beyond that. Networking is about building relationships that open doors. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who inspire and challenge you to grow. If you’re the only person in your circle achieving success, ask yourself why. Is your network truly pushing you to reach the next level, or are you staying stagnant because you’re the most accomplished one in the room?

The Power of Strategic Networking

One of my favorite sayings is, “You don’t need to be rich to be around the wealthy; you just need to be intentional.” Successful people are drawn to like-minded individuals. Eagles fly with eagles – they don’t waste time soaring with pigeons. If you want to expand your reach and find new opportunities, you need to think about the company you keep.

Being Strategic with Your Network

Effective networking doesn’t mean simply adding people on LinkedIn or attending every social event in town. Instead, it’s about being strategic:

1. Seek Out People Who Inspire You: Find individuals who are not only successful but are also genuinely passionate and purpose-driven. These are the types of people who’ll motivate you when you’re feeling low.
2. Learn to Add Value First: Everyone has something to bring to the table. Think about what you can offer others in your network, whether it’s support, resources, or insights. If you start with a giving mindset, you’ll naturally attract those who value and appreciate you.
3. Position Yourself Deliberately: Sometimes, you don’t need wealth or status to associate with affluent, successful people. You just need to be strategic in positioning yourself. Find ways to be in the spaces where they are – networking events, community activities, professional groups – and let them see your value.

Eagles Fly Together – The Importance of Like-Mindedness

It’s often said that you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. If you’re surrounded by people who push you, your standards rise. But if you’re around those who lack ambition, it’s easy to plateau.

It’s not enough to be knowledgeable, humble, or productive if you’re surrounded by people who don’t inspire you to use those traits. Imagine you’re an eagle. If you’re flying with other eagles, you’re constantly inspired to soar higher. But if you’re flocking with pigeons, you’ll end up staying low, where the comfort zone might feel nice, but the real opportunities are few and far between.

When to Reevaluate Your Circle

It’s never easy to reflect on your friendships and consider if they’re helping you reach your goals. Yet, this is one of the most powerful things you can do. Here are some questions to ask:

• Am I being challenged by those around me, or am I the only one pushing myself?
• Do my friends support and encourage my growth, or are they content with staying in the same place?
• Are there people in my circle I can learn from, or am I always the one giving advice?

If you find that your circle isn’t aligned with your goals, it’s time to start seeking out people who are. This doesn’t mean you need to end friendships, but it does mean you should diversify your network to include people who inspire, uplift, and empower you.

Conclusion

In today’s world, success is rarely achieved in isolation. The people you surround yourself with play a crucial role in shaping your trajectory. Be deliberate about the company you keep. The right network won’t just boost your career or your business – it will enrich every part of your life.

As you look at your own circle, remember: your network is your wealth. Invest in it wisely, and it will repay you in ways you never imagined.