When I started my business, I was in my early 30s. I was driven, full of ideas, and focused on building something meaningful. I surrounded myself with people who were also hungry to grow, take risks, and figure things out as they went. At that stage, it was all about momentum, problem-solving, and saying yes to almost everything.
Now, in my 40s, life feels different. The pace is still full, but the focus has shifted. Life definitely life’s differently in your 40s. There’s more on your plate, more on the line, and less room for trial and error. You have to make smart, quick, and data-driven decisions. And because of that, I’ve become more intentional about who I spend time with and where I invest my energy.
More than ever, I’ve realized how important it is to surround yourself with people who truly want to see you win. People who don’t just cheer when things go well, but who help you think clearer, decide faster, and grow better.
Early on, I thought it was best to be the smartest person in the room. It felt like a sign that I was doing something right. But over time, that mindset shifted. Now, I want to be in rooms where I can learn, grow, and collaborate. I want to be around people who challenge my thinking, who bring different perspectives, and who genuinely want to elevate those around them. That’s the kind of environment where real progress happens.
The Difference Is Felt Immediately
Support doesn’t always look loud. It’s not just clapping for your success or reposting your wins. Sometimes it’s a thoughtful message. Sometimes it’s someone checking in after a hard day. Sometimes it’s quiet encouragement behind the scenes.
I’ve come to value people who show up with kindness, honesty, and the ability to celebrate others without jealousy. These are the ones who see your potential even when you doubt yourself. They challenge you to think bigger, push through, and keep going.
Protecting Your Circle
As the years go on, I’ve gotten a lot more intentional about who I allow in my space. That includes both my personal life and professional circle. I’ve learned to spot the difference between people who are truly supportive and those who only show up when it benefits them.
Not everyone deserves access to your energy. And protecting that doesn’t make you selfish. It makes you self-aware.
Being around the right people reminds you what is possible. It gives you permission to dream a little bigger, take a few more risks, and show up as the strongest version of yourself.
Community Over Competition
One of the most powerful shifts I’ve experienced is learning how much more fulfilling it is to grow alongside others rather than in isolation. Whether it’s connecting with fellow business owners, collaborating with strong teammates, or simply having honest conversations with people who get it, the right community will always lift you higher.
There is something really powerful about being surrounded by people who want to see you succeed, not because it benefits them, but because they believe in what you’re doing.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to do it all alone. And you shouldn’t.
Surround yourself with people who want to see you win. People who light up when you share your goals. People who remind you of your strength on the days you forget. People who make space for your growth without fear or comparison.
Because success feels better when you’re not the only one celebrating it.
