Surround Yourself with Greatness: How Your Environment Makes or Breaks You

Surround Yourself with GreatnessLaure Macanas

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Have you ever wondered how your surroundings affect your success? Let's look at a surprising story from the Vietnam War. Back then, a shocking number of soldiers (nearly 20%) became addicted to heroin. It was such a serious problem that President Nixon declared it a national crisis.

But here's the twist: When these soldiers returned home, a staggering 95% kicked the habit almost instantly. This defied everything we thought about addiction and personal change.

So, what was the secret weapon? Their environment. In Vietnam, they faced a perfect storm for addiction:

• Constant combat stress

• Easy access to cheap heroin

• A culture of drug use among peers

Back home, these triggers vanished, and so did their addiction. This powerful lesson applies to anyone striving for greatness in life or business.

Our environment – the people we surround ourselves with, the places we spend time in, and the influences we absorb – profoundly impacts our habits, mindsets, and success. In my entrepreneurial journey, I've seen this firsthand.

When surrounded by those content with mediocrity, my own growth stalled. But when I actively sought out driven and ambitious people, I achieved breakthroughs I never thought possible.

Here's your challenge:

1. Define your vision and goals. What do you want to achieve?

2. Examine your current environment. Does it support your goals?

3. If not, be bold and make changes. Find mentors, communities, or groups that challenge, inspire, and hold you accountable.

The path to success may not be easy, but with the right environment, you'll be surprised by how much further you can go and how much easier it becomes.