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Evaluating Your Associations (Part II) by Jim Rohn
In Part I we took a look at the power of influence in our lives and
how it is possible to be nudged off course a little at a time until
finally, we find ourselves asking, "How did I get here?"
We then asked three key questions:
1) "Who am I around?" You've got to evaluate everybody who is able
to influence you in any way.
2) "What are these associations doing to me?" That's a major
question to ask. What have they got me doing, listening to, reading,
thinking and feeling? You've got to make a serious study of how
others are influencing you, both negatively and positively.
3) "Is that okay?" Maybe everyone you associate with has been a
positive, energizing influence. Then again, maybe there are some bad
apples in the bunch. All I'm suggesting here is that you take a
close and objective look. Everything is worth a second look,
especially the power of influence. Both will take you somewhere, but
only one will take you in the direction you need to go.
This week we wanted to discuss three ways to handle associations or
relationships that are holding you back.
1) Disassociate. This is not an easy decision, nor something you
should take lightly, but in some cases it may be essential (please
don't email me asking to advise you about this, only you can
decide). You may just have to make the hard choice not to let
certain negative influences affect you any more. It could be a
choice that preserves the quality of your life.
2) Limited association. Spend major time with major influence and
minor time with minor influences. It is easy to do just the
opposite, but don't fall into that trap. Take a look at your
priorities and your values. We have so little time at our disposal.
Wouldn't it make sense to invest it wisely?
3) Expanding your associations. This is the one I suggest you focus
on the most. Find other successful people that you can spend more
time with. Invite them to lunch (pick up the tab) and ask them how
they have achieved so much or what makes them successful. Now, this
is not just about financial success, it can be someone that you want
to learn from about having a better marriage, being a better parent,
having better health or a stronger spiritual life.
It is called association on purpose - getting around the right
people by expanding your circle of influence. And when you do that,
you will naturally limit the relationships that are holding you
back. Give it a try and see for yourself.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
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