Better Together
A friend will help you move. A good friend will help you move a dead body! None of us would be where we are today without the connections of the people around us.
When I consider what has helped me grow as a leader, I always return to the relationships in my ministry and in my life. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.”
Knowing this is true, I want to give you three points about relationships that I have found valuable.
First, RECOGNIZE that others increase your worth.
Your best qualities will surface in the presence of good people. When you are around people who are industrious and focused, don’t you find yourself more inclined to work hard? It’s easy to get excited about upcoming projects when you brainstorm with a creative team and can visualize where you are going. People around you can bring you up or take you down, so surround yourself with those who push you to be better.
In your life, it is vital that you have people who recognize your true capabilities and believe in you. Abraham Lincoln said, “I am a success today because I had a friend who believed in me, and I didn’t have the heart to let him down.” The belief that other people have in you may very well be what keeps you moving forward through tough times.
Treasure any friendships that generate energy and enthusiasm towards your dreams and goals. These people are not easy to find. You may have heard it said, “A true friend is one who overlooks your failures and tolerates your success!” When you have a friend that encourages you, that motivates you and that celebrates you – you are truly rich in friendship!
Secondly, REALIZE that relationships provide opportunities.
I think the key indicator for wealth is not good grades, work ethic, or IQ. I believe it's relationships. Ask yourself two questions: How many people do I know, and how much ransom money could I get for each one?
Every incredible opportunity will come into your life disguised as a relationship. You are not an island – your entire world is made up of people and the interactions between them. And people are the key to your success. I have been introduced to many individuals who have tremendously impacted my life and my ministry – people who I would not have met without an existing relationship with the friend who made that introduction. So, I make every effort to do the same – to connect people with others I know who can help them succeed. Mentors can be the catalyst to success. Find people who can share their wisdom with you and learn from their mistakes and accomplishments. Also, spend some time each week being a mentor. Give back. The time that we sow into helping others always reaps an abundant harvest.
Finally, REVITALIZE your love of the people around you.
Without people, the vision perishes. You will not be able to accomplish your dreams without help. Your company, your family, your life will not move forward without a dedicated team effort, and you are critical to that team. How you choose to treat the people around you will be modeled by all those on your team, and it will become the culture of your workplace and your life. That statement is significant, and worth repeating. Your treatment of others will set the culture of your life. Don’t pretend to love the people around you, then talk about them later and wonder why your life is not consistently growing. But if you love the people who stand beside you, they will follow your example, and it will spread throughout all areas.
You can only reach your goals with the assistance of others. The “greats” learn this fact early and make it a central part of their strategy for success. I encourage you today to look around you. Thank the people who stand with you, who encourage you and who have your back. Make introductions when you can to help out your peers. And genuinely seek to enrich your life by expanding your relationships.
Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
Make the rest of your life the best of your life!
You can listen to this week's #SucessMadeSimple podcast by clicking below.