The People in Your Life Are Either Fuel or Friction

When you think about your professional and personal growth, who is in your circle? Who’s pushing you to be better? Who might be pulling you down? 

Success is never built in isolation. Whether in business or life, the people closest to you play a decisive role in your growth… or your stagnation. Think of it like physics: some people are fuel, propelling you forward with energy, ideas, and encouragement. Others are friction, slowing you down with negativity, doubt, or distractions. 

Your momentum depends on the voices you let in. No amount of strategy or ambition is strong enough to overcome the wrong proximity.

Audit your inner circle

So, how do you ensure you’re surrounded by the right influences? Start by auditing your Board of Advisors. Who are the five closest voices in your life? These are the people who influence your mindset, decisions, and ultimately, your results. 

Ask yourself:

• Who challenges me to think bigger?
• Who holds me accountable when I lose focus?
• Who inspires me with their success and discipline?
• Who drains my energy with doubt or negativity?
• Who feels like dead weight rather than a driving force?

Be honest. You might realize some relationships need to shift, or even end. This isn’t about recklessly cutting people out but protecting your growth and aligning yourself with those who lift you higher.

Choose fuel over friction

Remember, success is contagious. Fuel feeds your fire, friction snuffs it out. Surround yourself with individuals who challenge, empower, and believe in your potential. Because proximity isn’t just influence; it’s a multiplier. Audit your inner circle now, and the results will follow.

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