“Don’t join an easy crowd; you won’t grow. Go where the expectations and the demands to perform are high.” — Jim Rohn, American entrepreneur, author and business philosopher
This quote means a lot to me because early in my career I attended an MDRT Annual Meeting and had the good fortune to listen to and later meet the late, great Jim Rohn. He said many things that evening that have been stuck in my psyche ever since.
I have always sought out the company of individuals who challenge me and with whom I could see a future filled with possibilities and hope. One reason to join MDRT is to be constantly in the company of high achievers, whether by attending meetings or looking for ways to volunteer.
Rohn taught that not all relationships require the same treatment though. He said, “Spend major time with major influences and minor time with minor influences. Most people do it backward!”
Here’s what that means to me:
- Dissociation: Step away from people who pull you down, not with anger but with clarity.
- Limited association: Not everyone deserves your best time/day. Instead, have a coffee rather than lunch or dinner.
- Expanded association: Spend more time with people who inspire and challenge you.
Try this simple exercise to put it into action:
- Make a list of the people in your life you spend the most time with. Psychology tells us that we are a composite of the five people we spend the most time with.
- Next to each name, write “lifts me up” or “keeps me comfortable.”
- Identify one person who’s living at the level you’re reaching for. Call that person today and make an appointment to find out how they have accomplished something you admire. Take good notes and send them a thank-you card for their time.
The people around you have a powerful influence on you. If you want to grow professionally, be intentional about who you spend your time with. Look for people who challenge you to think bigger and encourage you to become the best version of yourself.
Through MDRT and its meetings, you have access to a global community of professionals who are eager to share their experiences and insights. Invest in those relationships, and you’ll accelerate both your personal and professional growth.
Thomas Levasseur is a 37-year MDRT member. He’s also a member of MDRT’s Court of the Table.
