What Company do you keep?
The Power of Positive Influence in Leadership and Life
When people say, “Hang out with five complainers, and you’ll become the sixth,” they aren’t just offering a passing warning; they’re highlighting a profound truth about how our social environment shapes our mindset, actions, and outcomes. In both leadership and life, the people we surround ourselves with—our alliances—play an instrumental role in our personal development, professional success, and overall outlook.
Imagine joining a circle of individuals who constantly complain and see obstacles rather than opportunities. Before long, this mindset starts subtly influencing your own perceptions, gradually eating away at your resilience and optimism. This isn’t just a conjecture; science shows that we often adopt the behaviors, attitudes, and even the goals of those we spend the most time on. As social creatures, we mirror the emotional energy of those around us. While positivity can inspire, negativity, even in small doses, can spread and take root, much like a “rotten mango spoiling the rest in the basket.”
Life and leadership are team sports; they aren’t meant to be done alone. While many of us value independence, our greatest achievements often come not in isolation but through collaboration. The saying, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” speaks volumes about the value of working within a supportive, driven team. True, there are times when we can act quickly and make strides on our own, but the most sustainable success comes from collective effort, where diverse perspectives, skills, and support systems propel us to achieve more than anyone person could alone i.e. getting the right alliances.
Just as important as knowing we need alliances is knowing which alliances to build. Not all connections are beneficial; some can drain us, distract us, or even derail our goals. A successful battalion thrives on collective quality, on the shared commitment and cohesion of its members rather than on the superiority of one individual. For a battalion, strength lies in its unity and in the contribution of each soldier, no matter what their rank. One toxic influence can compromise the entire team’s morale, effectiveness, and harmony.
In leadership, selecting the right alliances is paramount. Leaders should look for people who share their vision, which is true even in romantic alliances, who are committed to progress, and who bring positivity and resilience to the team. While building a team, we should be mindful of aligning with those who contribute to a culture of encouragement, accountability, and growth. When every member believes in the collective vision and values, the team’s success becomes the sum of its individual strengths and ambitions.
Please and I say please; Choose Wisely, Grow Together
This is old-time wisdom that never gets old, surround yourself with people who push you to be your best, who challenge you to grow, and who believe in a future filled with possibilities. We need to be intentional about our alliances because the energy, mindset, and behaviors of those closest to us will eventually reflect in our own actions. A positive, focused, and committed circle can be the difference between success and stagnation.
In life and leadership, as in a battalion, each person’s contribution and energy ripple through the group. By choosing the right company and fostering alliances rooted in trust, respect, and mutual growth, we set the foundation not only for our own success but for the success of everyone we are fortunate enough to work with.
Taking the First Step: The Unsung Secret to Personal Success
In the words of the ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” While often quoted, the deeper truth of this statement is overlooked in practice. The most significant barrier to achieving our goals is rarely the lack of ability but rather the hesitation to take that critical first step.
Why We Fail to Begin
Failure, more often than not, stems from inertia—our reluctance to move from thought to action. Fear of failure, over-analysis, or even sheer doubt in our capabilities can paralyze us. Yet, this hesitation costs us dearly. As the saying goes, “We miss 100% of the shots we don’t take.” By standing still, we guarantee failure. Conversely, when we decide to act, even imperfectly, we open ourselves to the possibility of both wins and losses.
Proactivity: The Foundation of Success
Stephen Covey, in his seminal work The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, identifies proactivity as the starting point for all progress. Proactivity is more than just taking action—it is the conscious decision to take responsibility for creating our future. It is the mindset that says, “I will initiate change rather than wait for it.” Without this foundational habit, even the best plans remain just that—plans.
Resilience: Staying the Course
Once the journey has begun, the challenges multiply. Resilience becomes the compass that keeps us on track when obstacles arise. However, resilience is not only about enduring difficulties but also about summoning the courage to take the next step, even when the odds are stacked against us. It’s about perseverance and the refusal to give up, no matter how daunting the circumstances.
Discipline: Doing It Anyway
Where does discipline fit into this equation? Discipline is the engine that powers resilience. It is the ability to act—not based on feelings but on necessity. Discipline pushes us forward on days when motivation is absent and doubt threatens to overwhelm. In essence, discipline ensures we continue taking steps toward our goals, whether or not we feel inspired.
The Power of Starting and Sustaining
Every success story begins with someone taking that first step. It is followed by a series of disciplined actions fueled by resilience and underpinned by a proactive mindset. Together, these qualities form the foundation for extraordinary achievements.
So, if you are hesitating today, remember: the journey is not about sprinting to the finish line but about consistently putting one foot in front of the other. The power of success lies not just in starting but in continuing. Take that step—you might just be surprised where it leads
Choose wisely!
CPA Hillary Oonge:
Personal Effectiveness and Career coach,
Community Manager FPKE,
COO and Partner -SKM Africa LLP and
Board Member at KCDF.