10 Types of People to Surround Yourself for Success

Success is made up of hard work, commitment and passion but perhaps one of the most crucial factors to take into account is who we choose to surround ourselves with. As the old adage goes, ‘you are who you hang out with’ and the people we invite into our world on a daily basis can impact the way we think, feel and act.

Success doesn’t occur in a vacuum. In reality, there are a number of factors that lead to the success of an entrepreneur. Hard work and drive are always necessary for entrepreneurial success, but your personal improvement leading up to your success can be greatly driven by other people.

Here are 10 types of people who can exert a positive influence on you and help in propelling you forward on the path of success.

1. Ambitious and passionate people.

Surround yourself with people who have goals, want to accomplish something in life, reach somewhere and be something. No matter which area or field they are trying to excel in, the common denominator is that they have clarity about life and know exactly what their goals are. These people always keep their big picture in mind. They work according to their vision, are focused on their goals and are always planning in terms of moving ahead on their chosen path.

2. People who love life

These are people who just have a positive attitude about life. it’s not all about work, their take is that life is short so work hard & play hard! They may have had near-death experiences themselves or close-to-home, but they give you an inspiration that you’ve never had before. They enable you to think beyond the job, which sometimes gives leaders the most inspiration.

3. People who ask questions

We have all heard of the saying that there is no such thing as a bad question. That’s not ALWAYS the case, but for the most part, it is true. People that are always asking questions are the ones that want to know how to do everything the right way and want answers so that they fully understand everything. Everyone is always grateful for the person in the room that ends up raising their hand and asking the same question everyone else had on their mind. It would be a great benefit to you to befriend this individual, because at the end of the day you will always be in the know. 

4. People Who Are Good, Really Good

I’m talking about good people. People who are good to others. CEOs who view themselves on the same playing field as their flight attendant. We want to hang with them. We want to talk to them, and laugh with them. The people with the big hearts that inspire us all to do more, to do good.

5. Those who can provide a genuine feedback.

It is human nature to hear good things about ourselves. Most people gravitate towards those who appreciate them and talk positive about them. But it is not wise to have ‘yes people’ around you all the time. To have a balanced view about yourself and be aware of your blind spots, it is important that you surround yourself with people who can provide authentic feedback and who don’t mince words while giving their honest opinion about you. They will help you better yourself, rectify your mistakes, work on your weak spots and help you grow.

6. People who challenge you

People who challenge you are some of the most powerful in your network. You don’t have all of the answers and they’ve got most of the tough questions you didn’t think of. And maybe you’re pissed you didn’t think of those questions or have the answers but thank goodness you’ve got these people in your life for that! They may annoy you at times but they bring you to a level you might not have attained.

7. People who listen, not talk

These people are so powerful. They’re the few in your life that want to know more about you, your business and want to help, constantly wanting to get you in touch with people they know that can help. They ask you a lot of questions and listen to every word you say. They won’t turn every conversation you have around to them. They’re genuinely interested in what you do, and who you serve.

8. Those who are on a similar journey as you.

Surround yourself with people you aspire to be, what you too want to become and who are out to reach similar goals as you. You can relate to such people, have meaningful conversations with them, discuss your problems, ask for advice and seek their help when you feel stuck.

9. Those who help you tap your full potential and bring out the best in you.

Surround yourself with people who understand you, can identify with your dreams and aspirations and will help you further your goals. They may be your family members, friends, colleagues or associates- anyone you can resonate with and feel comfortable with talking your heart out, discussing your positives and negatives, assets and limitations, strengths and weaknesses. They will help you get in touch with your real self and make you feel confident and empowered.

10. Those who can help you keep happy, upbeat and positive.

En route the journey of success, you will experience difficulties, face challenges, problems, and hardships that can make you feel low. It is important to have a support group and be surrounded by people who can keep your spirits up when the chips are down and boost your morale when things seem dark and nebulous. These cheerleaders will be there for you when you need them the most and help you tide over downtimes.