On episode #48 “Harnessing the Power of the Right People"
I posted a quote on LinkedIn that received so much attention and positive feedback. And upon reflection, I wouldn’t normally use a quote to bridge the podcast but I think this is so important and worthy of review and deeper discussion.
“Surround yourself with people that push you do and be better. No drama or negativity. Just higher goals and higher motivation. Good times and positive energy. No jealousy or hate. Simply bringing out the absolute best in each other.”
Surround yourself with people that challenge and push you to reach higher goals and strive for greater achievements. Take on the world without the weight of drama or negativity, instead focus on creating a positive atmosphere of growth. There is no room for jealousy or hate here, only collaboration and encouragement so you can bring out the best in each other.
The true power is having connections who fuel your ambitions and urge you to stay consistent rather than giving into complacency.
Having the right people around can also create an atmosphere of positivity and hope, which is especially important during times of crisis. A team that shares a common purpose will be able to come together in difficult moments and work hard with renewed motivation. This sense of unity and purpose helps everyone focus on the collective goal, instead of getting caught up in individual worries or fears.
We all know someone who continuously creates a chaotic environment or is constantly embroiled in drama. Far worse, they cannot help but to try and drag you down with them. An old saying goes, “there are three types of people in this world; those that have taken up the challenge to become the very best version of themselves and are rising above their potential; those who strive each day to reach that potential yet haven’t quite made it there yet; and then those who remain stuck at the bottom attempting to bring others down too.
Having the right people around us is essential in order to reach our highest potential. Mentors, teachers, family members, and trusted friends can be instrumental in pushing us to strive for more than what we initially thought we could achieve. It's important to keep individuals in our social circle who challenge us and bring out the best versions of ourselves.
research articles in the show notes should you want to follow up and read more.
1. Amabile, T. M., Barsade, S. G., Mueller, J. S., & Staw, B. M. (2005). Affect and Creativity at Work. Administrative Science Quarterly, 50(3), 367-403.
2. Grant, A. M., & Gino, F. (2010). Reversing the Extraverted Leadership Advantage: The Role of Employee Proactivity. Academy of Management Journal.
3. Luthans, F., Avolio, B. J., Avey, J. B., & Norman, S. M. (2007). Positive psychological capital: Measurement and relationship with performance and satisfaction. Personnel Psychology, 60(3), 541-572.
4. Sosik, J. J., & Godshalk, V. M. (2000). Leadership styles, mentoring functions, and outcomes. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 21(6), 637-652.
5. Witherspoon, A. B., & Anderson, N. R. (2008). The Impact of Social Support on Employee Performance: A Closer Look at the Role of Managers. Human Resource Management, 47(3), 521-536.