Choosing Wisely

Who do you surround yourself with? Are you encouraged, inspired or challenged by them or do they leave you discouraged? The people we choose to surround ourselves with can either be a great source of strength or our deepest well of depletion.

Hans F. Hanson captures this truth succinctly with his quote, “People inspire you, or they drain you. Pick them wisely.” This statement is a profound reminder of the impact our relationships have on our well-being, success, and overall happiness. I have friends that leave me faith-filled after a chat and those that leave me knackered; those who offer prayers and those who offer doubt or nothing at all.

The Power of Positive Influence

Inspiration is a powerful force. It ignites our passions, fuels our dreams, and propels us toward our goals. The people who inspire us are those who uplift us with their words, actions, and attitudes.

They are the ones who see the best in us and help us see the best in ourselves. These individuals often challenge us to grow, encouraging us to step out of our comfort zones and reach for the stars.

Surrounding ourselves with inspiring people can be transformative. They can help us see possibilities we might have missed and provide support when we encounter obstacles. Their positive energy is contagious, creating a ripple effect that enhances our own energy and enthusiasm. Their stories can be life transforming when we hear them.

By choosing to be around such people, we create an environment that nurtures our growth and development.

The Impact of Negative Influence

Conversely, there are those who drain us. These individuals may not always intend harm, but their negativity, pessimism, and constant need for validation can be exhausting. They might be chronic complainers, energy stealers, or individuals who consistently bring us down with their own unresolved issues.

Being around draining people can sap our energy, diminish our motivation, and cloud our perspective. They can create a toxic environment that stifles our creativity and dampens our spirits.

Over time, this can lead to burnout, stress, and a decline in our mental and emotional health. Recognising and limiting our exposure to such individuals is crucial for maintaining our well-being.

So, how do we pick our companions wisely?

The first step is self-awareness. Understanding our own needs, values, and goals helps us identify who will support and align with them. It’s essential to evaluate our relationships critically and honestly, asking ourselves whether they are enriching or depleting.

Next, we need to cultivate the courage to make changes. This might involve setting boundaries with those who drain us or seeking out new connections with people who inspire us. It can be challenging to distance ourselves from long-standing relationships, but our well-being must take precedence.

Creating a network of supportive, inspiring people requires intentional effort. It means actively looking for individuals who exhibit qualities we admire and aspire to emulate. This might be through faith communities, professional networks, social groups, or personal relationships. It’s about finding those who challenge us to be our best selves and who genuinely care about our growth and happiness.

It’s essential to reciprocate. To attract and retain inspiring people in our lives, we must also strive to be a source of inspiration and positivity. This involves being supportive, encouraging, and maintaining a positive outlook. By contributing positively to our relationships, we create a mutual exchange of energy and inspiration.

Hans F. Hanson’s quote serves as a timeless reminder of the profound influence people have on our lives. By choosing our companions wisely, we can cultivate a supportive and inspiring environment that fosters our growth and well-being. It requires self-awareness, courage, and intentionality, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Ultimately, we are ‘part’ architects of our lives. The people we allow into our inner circles can either help us build a magnificent edifice or erode our foundations. Let us choose those who inspire us, challenge us, and uplift us, for they are the ones who will help us reach our fullest potential.

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