Who Is In Your Circle of Influence?

When you think about reaching your highest self, who do you picture as being by your side? Who is in your inner circle, guiding and influencing your journey? The people you surround yourself with play a massive role in shaping the person you become. Whether it's mentors, partners, coaches, or friends, the influence of others can accelerate your growth, keep you grounded, and help you stay aligned with your goals. As I’ve experienced in my own journey—surrounding myself with individuals more experienced than myself has been one of the most valuable ways to elevate my leadership and overall growth.

In today’s post, I want to explore the importance of your center of influence, and share how surrounding yourself with the right people can push you toward your highest potential—just as it has done for me. Let’s dive into why your circle matters and how you can start curating it to reach new heights.

Why Your Center of Influence Matters

The people you choose to spend your time with—whether in your personal or professional life—hold the power to shape your actions, mindset, and ultimately your results. This is what I call your “center of influence.” These are the individuals who provide you with inspiration, knowledge, support, and accountability as you navigate life’s challenges and growth opportunities.

Much like any other successful individual, I’ve found that it’s been crucial to place myself in environments where I’m constantly learning and growing. For me, this means surrounding myself with mentors, partners, and experts who are more experienced in areas I want to improve, whether that’s in my leadership skills, emotional intelligence, or business acumen. It’s through this combination of guidance and influence that I’m able to level up in my leadership and show up better for my team members.

Who is in Your Center of Influence?

You may have heard the saying, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” It’s a powerful statement because it’s true—your environment plays a significant role in your growth and success. Here’s who makes up my center of influence:

1. My Girlfriend Joy:

My girlfriend, a successful CEO, is one of my most influential mentors. Her business mindset, leadership style, and emotional intelligence have taught me invaluable lessons about both professional growth and personal resilience. I’ve learned how to be more strategic, how to manage high-stakes situations, and most importantly, how to maintain balance while pushing for success. She challenges me to reach higher and show up for my team and personal goals with even greater intention.

2. My Work Mentor Van:

My work mentor has been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership and business management. As an experienced manager and partner of the firm, she has helped me refine my skills, offer perspective in times of challenge, and think critically about how to lead my team more effectively. Her advice has empowered me to be a better account supervisor, and it’s through our candid conversations that I’ve grown into a more confident and capable leader. Having a woman partner who understands both the corporate and personal dynamics of business has been incredibly helpful. She offers a perspective I deeply value—how to lead with empathy, communicate effectively, and balance multiple priorities. Our partnership has strengthened my ability to mentor others and take strategic risks while staying true to my values.

4. My Therapist Wayne:

Navigating life’s struggles, especially when it comes to family dynamics, can take a toll on your emotional well-being. My therapist has been key in helping me manage my emotions and cope with stress. By learning to process my thoughts and feelings, I’ve become better equipped to handle difficult situations, which has in turn made me a more composed and grounded leader for my team.

5. My Career Coach Danielle: 

My career coach plays a crucial role in helping me assess my professional goals, refine my strategy, and ensure I’m on track to achieve my dreams. Through regular coaching sessions, I gain clarity, confidence, and the necessary action steps to level up in my career. My coach helps me build accountability and focus, ensuring that my goals align with my values and overall mission.

Building Your Own Center of Influence

So, how do you start building your own center of influence? It’s about curating a network of individuals who challenge and support you in equal measure. Here are a few tips to help you create your own powerful circle:

1. Seek Out Mentors Who Can Teach You What You Don’t Know

Look for individuals who are already where you want to be. Whether it’s in business, emotional intelligence, leadership, or any other aspect of your personal or professional life, mentorship can accelerate your growth. Don’t be afraid to approach people you admire and ask for guidance. I’ve learned so much from those who have more experience than me.

2. Partner with Like-Minded People

Collaboration with people who share similar values can create synergy that propels you forward. For me, working closely with my girlfriend and my woman partner has provided not only business insight but a space where we can learn and grow together. Find people who inspire you and can offer unique insights into your journey.

3. Make Emotional Well-Being a Priority

Your mental health is as important as your professional achievements. Surround yourself with individuals who understand the importance of emotional well-being, such as a therapist or trusted friends. By learning how to navigate your emotions, you can show up more fully in both your personal and professional life.

4. Stay Accountable with Regular Check-ins

Accountability is key to growth. As I’ve seen in my own life, holding myself accountable through weekly calls with colleagues has not only helped them achieve their goals but has also reinforced the importance of goal setting for me. The more we check in with each other, the more we grow and support each other’s progress.

5. Become a Mentor Yourself

One of the best ways to learn is by teaching. By mentoring colleagues and teammates, you not only reinforce your own knowledge but you also create a culture of support and empowerment within your team. My weekly calls with colleagues focus on setting personal leadership goals, much like the principles I’ve learned in Get Grounded. This mentorship role helps me stay accountable while guiding others toward success.

Final Thoughts

Your center of influence plays a huge role in helping you reach your highest self. Surround yourself with individuals who elevate you, teach you, challenge you, and hold you accountable. Whether it’s a mentor, partner, therapist, or coach, these people provide the guidance and support you need to unlock your full potential.

If you’re ready to set the right goals for yourself and take your leadership to the next level, start by evaluating your circle and identifying who in your life helps you grow. Like I did, surround yourself with people who help you align your actions with your highest self.

And if you’re looking for guidance on how to set personal leadership goals, check out my post on personal leadership goals to get started on the path to growth.

Are you ready to build a circle that supports your highest potential?