Surround yourself with people and books that make you better

Or not. Up to you.

Hi! Today’s sticky note is: Surround yourself with people and books that make you better.

Doesn’t this feel like it a sticker or a meme or something? I’d buy that, put in on my laptop.

Why did I write this one? A big part of leading yourself is about being intentional about how you spend your time. This is similar to yesterday’s note that I become what I give my attention to. It’s not just a prompt to choose well, it’s a reminder that I have a choice, period.

What and who is influencing my perspective? Are they helping me grow? Are they confirming my existing beliefs or are they challenging my beliefs, introducing new ideas? Should I seek out new people, new books?

What is left unsaid on this note? Maybe “…instead of people and books that make you worse”. Or maybe it’s a reminder to hang out with people and read books, period. Regardless, the point is that you can be intentional about attention.

One caveat. Books are fabulous but reading can be a distraction, an excuse for not taking action. Like I need more information. Sometimes that may be true. Other times, it’s chasing insecurity, seeking certainty where there might not be any. I have to remind myself that I’ll never be able to read all the books, gain all the knowledge, so read for a while then go do a thing.

What do you think?

Love,

Kate

p.s. Want more books that make you better? I’ve belonged to The Next Big Idea Club, for about five years now. It sends me two new books per quarter along with notes and discussion prompts. This isn’t an affiliate link. I just genuinely appreciate the service.