Five friends, five different outcomes.
You wake up one morning.
The sun's out, inspiration strikes.
For the first time ever you know, without a doubt, what you want to do with the rest of your life. You're starting a business!
7 PM couldn't come soon enough, because that's when you'll be meeting your friends at the local pub for a pint of BrewDog. Perfect time to share your news. They need to hear this.
John leans back, shrugs. “Yeah, not sure that’s gonna work.”
Paul squints. “I don’t really know what you’re talking about.”
George: “I don’t really know what you’re talking about, but it sounds interesting. Tell me more.”
Ringo’s eyes open wide. “That’s awesome! How are you going to do it?”
Billy leans in. “Great, I’ve done something similar. Here’s what worked for me…”
Same day. Same idea. Five very different responses.
I know who I'd want to sit next to for the rest of the night.
Now, imagine if the entire table looked different. No Johns, no Pauls—just more Billys and Ringos.
The energy shifts.
Doubt is replaced with curiosity, hesitation with momentum.
Suddenly, your idea isn’t something to defend, it’s something to build.
If you're constantly surrounding yourself with inspired, curious, and engaged people, your ideas (and outcomes) will look very different than if you're stuck with John or Paul.
On a more serious and practical note:
Think of the people you spend the most time with and take advice from – friends, family, colleagues, mentors. If they’re a bunch of encouragers, amazing. You’ve got the right people in your corner.
If not, it’s worth seeking out these kinds of people.
Because, not to sound dramatic, but your future literally depends on it.