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This week, we discuss the people worth taking with you on life's journey. The circle you keep directly contributes to the quality of your life.

As a brief disclaimer: any links for items, books, etc. that are available for purchase are done through an affiliate program. This means that I get paid a small pittance of money for everything you buy using my links. I don't recommend things I haven't read/used, so using these links helps me out and gets you great products!

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The Circle you Keep

I was having a discussion with someone recently about how the moments we actually remember typically revolve around the people who were involved. Think back to the most memorable moments in your life; chances are, these moments are highlighted by specific individuals who were involved with that particular story. As human beings, we are evolutionary pack animals; we thrive in groups and are meant to survive in close circles with others. The isolated life is not ideal for our growth, health, or mental well-being.

The people you surround yourself with contribute to your life in a few key ways. Jim Rohn is famous for describing how we are the product of those we surround ourself with most often; while this is certainly true, those we spend the most time with effect us in numerous other ways. If we think about the fact that our memories are punctuated by the people involved, then surrounding yourself with people worth remembering becomes even more important.

To extrapolate even further, what do you think happens if you achieve some level of "success" in life? Those who achieve something meaningful suddenly experience a new rush of friends and acquaintances. Everyone wants to be associated with those who are doing meaningful things. This new attention tends to be hollow and meaningless; a cluster of leeches trying to feed off the positive energy accompanying success. It becomes crucial, therefore, to bring your inner circle along with you on the journey.

If you are fortunate enough to "make it" or to experience some level of objective success, bring those who have supported you along for the ride. Having an inner circle who values you for you and lifts you up instead of asking what you can do for them is truly priceless. If you empower those around you, everyone wins together. It's far better to make it together than to experience success alone.

Those you surround yourself with influence who you are and you will become. If you take them along on your journey, the support you will receive will empower you to keep leveling up. Loyalty is a rare trait, and one that's worth valuing. Remember, the moments that matter in life always matter more because of the people involved. Never underestimate the value of the circle you keep.

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Hit List

The most interesting things I've read, heard, or encountered this week:

A great book to gift: Be a Work in Progress by John Cena

This is a cute little book that you can read in one sitting, and you can also gift to younger kids/teenagers. It's a positive and uplifting book about doing your best, staying positive, and overcoming your fear of failure. Additionally, it's on sale now for under $7!

Speaking of gifts: What Fitness Tracker is Right for You? by The Wall Street Journal

If you are thinking of gifting a fitness tracker, or if you are a fitness enthusiast looking to optimize, this is a decent guide. Now that there are so many different wearables, it's important to know the pros and cons of each.

Ideas for a Quick Read: The Best Short Books I've Ever Read by Alex and Books on Twitter

Sometimes you want to dig into a long and challenging book. Other times, you simply want to read something meaningful that won't take a tremendous amount of time. This list is a great sample of books that will leave an impact without taking months to finish.

A great podcast: Huberman Lab by Dr. Andrew Huberman

Dr. Huberman is a neuroscientist exploring how our brain influences our behaviors, our health, and our well-being. His guests are leaders in their field, and he provides a unique take on the mind-body connection that many of us have heard about in the past.

A take on success: Really Successful People Say No To Almost Everything in Medium

Warren Buffett is one of those people who tends to get others to listen when he speaks. As one of the world's most famous investors, Buffett certainly has a track record of success. This article is an interesting take on the importance of saying "no" to opportunities that don't serve your bigger vision.

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That will do it for this week! Please let me know what you liked, didn't like, and what you want to see more of. Do you want it to be longer, shorter? Do you want specific topics covered more? Less? Have a wonderful week, and remember to please forward this to your friends -- helping get the word out and get more eyes on this newsletter is hugely helpful and greatly appreciated!

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