To reach a high level of achievement there are a lot of things you need to focus on as it relates to your own attitude, your ability to harness fear, your persistence to not give up, and your capacity for bouncing back from failure. However, there is one often overlooked characteristic of high achievers, and that is the people who you hang around and invite as your friends.

This one factor can make or break the achievement of your goals.

Perhaps you are someone who desires to grow your career or make a lot of money. Maybe you hope to be famous or become the absolute best in a particular field. Suppose you want to make a significant difference through helping others. Nothing can hold you back more than the attitudes and behaviors of those around you.

Over the years I have learned that if you really want something, find others who share your beliefs, attitudes and interests and keep them close.  Find the eagles in your interest area and fly with them.  Don’t scratch with the chickens.

Get rid of the naysayers in your life.  Find friends who are successful or share your views on success.

Those with poor attitudes who never aspire to improve their own situations will certainly not fill your mind with the type of support and encouragement that will help you achieve your own goals.  In fact, their behavior and attitudes will rub off on you. They will destroy your mind, and kill your energy.

We have all likely heard the phrase “you are who your friends are.”  Believe it.  You’ll be amazed at how much you can accelerate your own success by surrounding yourself with the right people.