The Other Side of Environmental Exposure: Why You Need to Be Better for the People Around You

In the worlds of fitness, self-improvement, and entrepreneurialism, one seemingly universal notion is this: “you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

While there’s certainly, at least, a hint of insipid ideological phraseology inherent in any universalism, this one, in particular, has merit.

You are–without question–a product of your environment, and the people with whom you choose to surround yourself will, as a matter of course, have a tremendous influence on everything from your ambition and the energy you’re willing to expend to achieve it, to the way you speak and present yourself.

Ironically, while people accept this as truth, many seem to miss the inescapable yet seldom voiced counter-notion: environmental exposure works both ways.

If you’re the average of the five people with whom you spend the most time, you’re also part of the equation for each of those people, and anyone else in your immediate orbit.

Therefore, while it’s certainly true you should prioritize spending time with people who make you better (often requiring you to cut out people who don’t), you also have a responsibility to the people you care about to be better and to always be getting better.

Put somewhat less prolixly: don’t suck.

If you suck, you make everyone else suck, too.

It’s important to do as much as you can with people who make you better. Brainstorm with them. Break bread with them. Share space with them. Breath the same air as then.

And, whenever possible, hang out with them all damn day and learn from them.

You can get better and continue to grow by working with a coachjoining a mastermind, and going to the right events.

EVERY DAY, you have the opportunity to surround yourself with people to make you better–even just working at that coffee shop that’s a little bit farther away because the energy is right and you’re surrounded by other hustlers.

Don’t suck. The people in your circle are dependent on you.

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"I dislike writing; I love having written." Nothing counts until it's done. I'll teach you to finish.
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About The Author
John Romaniello is an author, consultant, and coach who helps people and brands find their voice through writing. He's published hundreds of articles, dozens of courses, and one New York Times bestselling book. Might wanna check out his Instagram, he's pretty easy on the eyes.