The Power of Your Circle: How Choosing Your Company Shapes Your Future
“It is in fact, a combination of these two things: Who we know and what we do that influences more than any other factor, who we will become. Because what you do puts you around people, and the people you’re around effects what you do.” -Ryan Holiday
When I was younger I remember my mother telling me “If you want a glimpse of your future, look at who you choose to surround yourself with in the present moment.” As an adult, I have found no words to be more true.
At the time I thought it was just a play on words encouraging me to make good choices and surround myself with people that did the same. Looking back and reflecting, I realize it's so much more.
Who we choose to spend our time with is not only an indication of what our future may look like, but it also can determine a multitude of outcomes such as our health, our ability to handle adversity and our overall well-being. Studies are now showing startling results that individuals that adapt a negative mindset have an increased sense of loneliness. This may come from boundaries of others that are choosing to limit exposure to individuals with a negative mindset as well as self isolation from those that view life experiences in a negative way.
When I think back of my most successful moments both personally and professionally it is when I have surrounded myself with a network of individuals who pushed me to grow and inspire me to reach for a greater potential. It also highlights the importance of having individuals not just share in my success stories but also provide me with constructive feedback on gaps I'm unaware of in a safe and caring way. In other words, they are not afraid to call me out on my BS therefore allowing me to get out of my own way and keeps driving for better.
“Your network is your net worth.”
Looking back, I remember a time very clearly where I was choosing individuals that were not benefiting my success. I found comfort in the complaint gang. Verbally venting and complaining about all of life's uncontrollables made me feel like I was not alone. In fact, it was somewhat of a sense of relief surrounding myself with those that were in this toxic mindset. Spreads like wildfire and the more it's discussed out loud the more you're guaranteed to receive. I vividly remember 1 evening looking around the table at the group of us that had so many blessings in our life yet we were verbally venting and complaining about the most minor items. In that moment I made a decision that I wanted better. The harsh reality was that it was up to me to make the decision and surround myself with individuals that I aspire to become and limit myself and the exposure to the toxic talk that was holding me back.
It did not take long before seeing a huge change in my world. Surrounding yourself with good people has many benefits, including:
Inspiration and motivation: Positive people can inspire you to try to be better, and help you stay focused on your goals and overcome challenges. They can also offer constructive criticism and feedback to help you grow and improve.
Confidence boost: Positive people can boost your self-esteem and confidence, and help you create a solid foundation of self-confidence.
Happiness became automatic: Positive people can have a contagious energy that can uplift your spirits and improve your overall happiness.
Sense of belonging: Connecting with people who have similar interests can help you feel like you belong.
Strong relationships: Being supportive and kind to others can build strong relationships, and research shows that people who are kind and compassionate are more satisfied with their lives.
Better memories: The people you spend time with can have a big impact on your memories, so surrounding yourself with good people can help you remember the good times more than the struggles.
The joy and gratitude I have for my life is directly linked to the individuals I choose to spend my time with. I am so grateful for my network of loving family, friends, clients and teammates. Together, with them, even during some of life's most challenging moments, I find so much joy and gratitude because these individuals support me and help me find the beauty and every day.
Life was never intended to live alone and it's our job to make sure that we set ourselves up for success in the present and future with individuals who are aligned and believe in the power of living a grateful life.
I’m Krista Ryan
My job is to help you learn a little, laugh a lot, and get clear on action steps for your success.
It may have taken a life changing event to shake me awake and decide I no longer wanted to live a comfortable life… I wanted to embrace the discomfort and live a life of courage and intention.
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