While growing up, my mother had a saying for everything as well as a superstition. I grew up with a lot of soundbites and food for thought. In certain ways, those bits helped mold me into a role of storyteller. I was back then. I am now. I’ve got many stories. A colleague once remarked/asked: “how old are you? How do you have so many stories? ” I’ve lived a life of much activity. But I’ll leave that for another day, chapter, and verse.

Back to my mom. She would say: “tell who you walk with, I’ll tell you who you are.” We’ve all been similarly advised. Makes sense. Your circle can define you.

Here’s a related question: does your circle inspire or does it cage you? In my view, your circle shouldn’t box you in. You should also feel inspired by your circle. Motivated. Not deflated. Your circle shouldn’t include frenemies. No time for that. If those you willingly associate with cages you in, run and find the nearest opening out. Sometimes it needs to be planned out. Sometimes you can spontaneously break free.