The people closest to us have a huge impact on our ability to lead effectively. The Law of the Inner Circle states that the people in our innermost circle will determine our potential as leaders. It is essential that the members of our inner circle are people who have our best interests at heart, want to see us succeed, and are able to hold us accountable. Our inner circle should be comprised of people with complementary skills who are closely connected to each other. This way, we can maximize our own strengths and utilize the strengths of others to achieve great things. Mother Teresa provides a perfect example of the power of the inner circle when she said, “You can do what I can’t do. I can do what you can’t do. Together we can do great things.” By surround herself with people who shared her vision and complemented her skills, Mother Teresa was able to change the world. We, too, can use the Law of the Inner Circle to reach our full potential as leaders.

The notion that you become like the five people you spend the most time with is not a new one. In fact, Darren Hardy cites research by Harvard social psychologist Dr. David McClelland which suggests that the people with whom you habitually associate determine up to 95 percent of your success or failure in life. The idea is that, over time, you will adopt the beliefs and behavior patterns of those around you. If you associate primarily with successful, positive people, then it stands to reason that you will yourself be more successful and positive. Conversely, if you surround yourself with negative people who are always complaining, it's likely that you will adopt a similar attitude. This is why it's so important to be mindful of the company you keep. If you want to achieve success in any area of life, it's essential to associate with people who have already achieved what you want to achieve. By doing so, you will put yourself on the fast track to success.

This quote is often attributed to Abraham Lincoln, though it is uncertain if he actually said it. Regardless of its origin, the sentiment expressed in the quote is sound. When undertaking any task, it is important to invest in the tools that will be used to complete the task. This is particularly true when the task is challenging. For example, if you are planning to chop down a tree, you will need a sharp ax. If you spend the majority of your time sharpening the ax, you will be able to chop down the tree more quickly and with less effort. The same principle can be applied to any goal. If you take the time to invest in the right tools, you will be able to achieve your goals more efficiently and with greater success. We often forget the people in our lives when it comes to investing in them and their impact on us.

In my life, I am surrounded by different types of people who each offer their own unique perspective. The Achievers in my life teach me the importance of taking urgent action and not wasting time. While their sense of urgency is often helpful, I also need to be careful not to bowl over other people in my haste. The Empaths in my life remind me to always consider the needs of others. Their gentle nudges help me to be more compassionate and understanding, but I also need to be careful not to make things more difficult than they need to be. The Optimists in my life show me the importance of always seeing the silver lining. While their optimism is refreshing, I also need to be careful not to underestimate the difficulties that I may face. The Wooers in my life teach me the importance of building and maintaining relationships. While their reminders are often helpful, I also need to be careful not to talk too much and listen too little. Lastly, the Commanders in my life teach me the importance of making decisions quickly. While their decisiveness is often helpful, I also need to be careful not to expect people to perform at their best in areas where they are weak. Each of these types of people brings something valuable into my life, and I am grateful for all that they teach me.

When it comes to your professional journey, remember that you don’t have to go it alone. Working with a team of supportive colleagues can help propel you further and faster than if you tried to make it on your own. So, find your tribe and work together to achieve success.

By Dean Miles

Keywords: Startups, Business Continuity, Mental Health