Do you ever feel like you aren’t reaching your full potential? That you’re struggling to achieve your goals, and you’re not sure why? In the journey of life, it’s not just about the destination, but also the people you meet along the way. The quality of your connections can have a tremendous impact on your success, happiness and growth. For black men in particular, building a strong and supportive network is crucial, as it can help break down barriers, create opportunities and foster a sense of belonging.
It might be time to take a closer look at the people you surround yourself with because as the powerful saying from Hotep goes, your network is your net worth. The people you associate with have the power to raise you up or drag you down, and as such, choosing your circle should be done with great care. We will explore the importance of building a strong network, focusing on who you should and, more importantly, who you shouldn’t spend time with.
Define who is the most reliable in your life:
In your journey towards success, it’s essential to know who’s got your back and who doesn’t. We all have friends or family members that we enjoy spending time with but don’t necessarily contribute positively to our personal growth. Start by making a list, as objectively as possible, of the people in your life and categorize them into those you can count on and those you cannot. Be honest with yourself, as this is the first step in creating a more supportive environment.
Build Your Tribe:
Now that you have your list, it’s time to focus on building your own circle of influence with the people you can count on. This is the group of individuals who will encourage, motivate, and help you grow personally and professionally. These are the people who will lift you up when you’re down, be a sounding board when you need advice, and celebrate your achievements. Consider quality over quantity, as a small and solid circle of influence is better than a large and weak one.
Reduce time with unreliable people:
This may be a difficult pill to swallow, but reducing the time you spend with people who don’t contribute positively to your growth is necessary for success. You don’t have to completely cut them out of your life, but being conscious of the energy you expend on them is essential. Instead, invest your time and energy with people who share similar goals, values, and drive.
Find a mentor:
Find someone who has achieved what you aspire to and reach out to them. You’d be surprised at how willing successful people are to help others grow. Interning or having a mentor can provide invaluable insights, guidance, and connections. There’s no better way to learn than from someone who has already navigated the path you’re on.
Get in The Streets:
It is time to network and finding events and organizations are excellent opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and expand your network. Surrounding yourself with driven, motivated, and ambitious people will only propel you to greater heights. Take every opportunity to make connections, learn from others, and maybe even forge new partnerships or friendships.
The key to achieving success lies in the people you surround yourself with. Building a strong and supportive network of people who are aligned with your goals is essential. By taking the steps mentioned in this blog, you will create an environment that encourages growth and accomplishment, propelling you to new heights. Remember, your network is your net worth, so invest in it wisely. Start building your empire today, and watch how the relationships you cultivate elevate you to greater success.