We’ve all heard the phrase “birds of a feather flock together.” It rings true in many areas of life. Highly educated individuals often find comfort in the company of others who share their level of education. Fitness enthusiasts bond over shared workout routines, and people of faith connect through common beliefs. It’s only natural—we gravitate toward those who mirror our values, lifestyle, and way of thinking.
This human instinct to connect with similar people creates a sense of belonging and validation. But what happens when we’re so comfortable with sameness that we stop growing? That’s where successful entrepreneurs take a different path.
Growth-Minded Entrepreneurs Play a Different Game
The business owner pulling in a million dollars a year doesn’t just want to hang out with other million-dollar earners. He or she is looking ahead—toward those doing $10 million, even $100 million in revenue. Why? Because proximity to greatness changes your perspective. You start to think differently, ask better questions, and challenge your current limitations.
This isn’t about ego—it’s about elevation.
When you surround yourself with people who’ve already reached the heights you aspire to, you gain more than just networking opportunities. You access different strategies, mental frameworks, and even habits that got them there. As author Jim Rohn famously said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”
That’s why savvy entrepreneurs avoid what we’ll call “sideways networking.” It might feel good to be the big fish in a small pond, but real growth requires you to jump into a bigger ocean.
Change Your Circle, Change Your Results
Take a moment to evaluate the people you spend the most time with in business. Are they content where they are, or are they stretching for more? If everyone in your circle is operating at your level, you may be capping your potential without even realizing it.
Here are a few tips to shift your circle with intention:
Attend higher-level masterminds or business conferences. Look for ones that attract seven- or eight-figure business owners.
Seek mentorship, not just camaraderie. Mentors help you collapse time by avoiding mistakes they’ve already made.
Be humble enough to be the least experienced in the room. That’s where you’ll do the most learning.
This doesn’t mean you abandon your current network. Instead, diversify your connections to include people who inspire you, challenge you, and show you what’s possible beyond your current horizon.
