There’s a famous quote attributed to Mark Twain that goes, "I stay away from people who mock my aspirations. Little people always do this, while great people always make me feel that I too can become great."
This simple yet profound statement carries a truth that resonates in both personal and professional life. Who we choose to spend time with, listen to, and trust shapes the trajectory of our journey—sometimes more than we realise. As a career coach, I’ve seen time and again how critical it is to build a supportive network that fosters ambition and growth. In this blog post, I’ll explore why your circle matters and how to ensure it’s helping, not hindering, your progress.
1. The Impact of Negative Voices
When you share your goals and dreams, how are they received? If you're met with eye-rolls, mockery, or dismissive remarks, these reactions can chip away at your self-belief. The more you hear that you “can’t” or “shouldn’t,” the more you start questioning whether you even have the right to pursue your aspirations in the first place.
People who mock your ambitions aren’t always doing it maliciously—sometimes it’s simply because they can't envision a future beyond their own limitations. But that doesn’t make their influence any less damaging. Over time, their negativity can create an invisible barrier between you and your goals.
2. The Power of Positive Reinforcement
On the flip side, think about how it feels when someone genuinely believes in your potential. The energy is completely different, isn’t it? When you’re around people who see greatness in you, it’s like being handed permission to dream bigger, work harder, and strive for more.
These are the individuals who cheer you on, offer constructive feedback, and push you to reach your highest potential. They don’t necessarily need to have achieved your particular dream, but their mindset is expansive. They make you believe that greatness is within reach—because they know it is.
3. Choosing Your Circle Wisely
It can be difficult to cut ties with those who hold you back, especially if they’ve been part of your life for a long time. But a key part of personal and professional development is learning when to walk away from relationships that no longer serve you. You don’t need to make dramatic exits or burn bridges. Simply start investing more time with the people who align with your values, ambitions, and growth.
Look for people who:
Inspire you with their own achievements and mindset.
Challenge you to be better, not by mocking your efforts but by encouraging you to push beyond your comfort zone.
Support your goals, even if they don’t entirely understand them.
Offer advice and constructive criticism that helps you grow.
It’s not about finding people who will praise you endlessly but about building relationships with those who foster growth.
4. Be the Great Person in Someone Else’s Life
Twain’s quote also hints at a deeper responsibility: to be the kind of person who lifts others up. Ask yourself—are you supporting the dreams of those around you, or are you subtly undermining them? It’s easy to slip into negative habits without realising it, especially in environments where competition is fierce.
When you embrace the mindset of greatness, you not only elevate yourself but also those around you. Be the person who sparks someone else’s potential, who says “I believe in you,” and who offers a hand when others might laugh. In lifting others, you raise the collective energy of your circle, and that positive momentum will come back to you tenfold.
Final Thoughts
Your journey is your own, but the people you surround yourself with will influence how far you can go. Choose wisely, seek out those who inspire you, and don’t be afraid to walk away from those who diminish your aspirations. Greatness isn’t a solo pursuit—it’s built with the help of a supportive and empowering network.
If you’re unsure where to start in building that network, or if you’re feeling held back by the voices around you, why not take my free career quiz? It’s a first step towards identifying your next move and surrounding yourself with the kind of people who will help you get there.
Take the Free Career Quiz Today
Remember: Great people make you feel that you, too, can become great. Keep them close.
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