How to Easily Surround Yourself with Successful People

You’ve heard the saying, “You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.”  I agree and as a financial advisor, I’ve seen some of my clients get dragged down financially by their family or friend circle and it ends up affecting their long term success. Yet despite this knowledge, they hesitate to go after new, potentially more beneficial relationships and here are some reasons why…

5 reasons you stay in unhealthy relationships: 

1. Sense of Loyalty: A survey by the American Psychological Association revealed that a sense of loyalty often trumps the pursuit of personal growth, leading individuals to stick with the same social circle despite knowing its limitations¹. Many people find comfort in familiarity, even when it comes to relationships that may no longer be fruitful. 
2. Competitive mindset: Sometimes, your subconscious makes you feel like someone else’s achievements diminishes your own. This competitive mindset can prevent you from forming genuine connections with more successful individuals and learning from their experiences.
3. Feelings of unworthiness: A low self-esteem may mean you feel like a black sheep around successful people, assuming that you are not accepted or valued and therefore making the assumption they will and do also see you that way. 
4. Threat to ego: People that are more “successful” can challenge your self-perception and sense of competence. This can lead you to avoid these relationships.
5. Fear of failure: Witnessing the success of others can cause you to highlight your own shortcomings and past failures. This fear of failure can prevent you from putting yourself in environments that could foster growth and development.
6. Fear of rejection: The reluctance to surround yourself with people perceived as ‘better’ can stem from deep-seated fears. Fear of rejection or feelings of unworthiness can prevent you from seeking out relationships that could foster growth and success. 

Breaking Free for Financial Success:

1. Embracing Change: Stepping outside one’s comfort zone is essential for growth. The National Bureau of Economic Research shows that individuals who diversify their social networks report higher levels of innovation and financial success.
2. Seeking Mentorship: Actively seeking mentors in the financial field can provide guidance and open doors to new opportunities.
3. Building Confidence: Overcoming feelings of inadequacy requires a conscious effort to build self-confidence. Engaging in personal development activities and celebrating small successes can gradually change one’s self-perception.

Revamping your social circle is more than just networking; it’s about aligning your environment with what and who inspires you. 

1.  American Psychological Association, “Survey on Relationship Loyalty vs. Personal Growth.” ↩︎

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* The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional prior to making a decision. Investing includes risks, including fluctuating prices and loss of principal. No strategy assures success or protects against loss.