attitudinal contagion

We need to be wary of who we choose to include in our social circle. Their beliefs, ideas, habits, assumptions and opinions become ours the more we spend time with them. As Jim Rohn pointed out, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

Through the scientific phenomenon of emotional contagion, we start adopting traits of the people we associate with. The people you hang out with plays a huge role in your success.

If you spend time with people who show bravery and courage, you become brave and courageous. If you spend time with people who are weak and timid , you become weak and timid. If you surround yourself with people who cheat and take shortcuts, you become a cheater yourself and start cutting corners. And if you surround people who are ethical and honest, you start embodying the same qualities and become your best honest self.

That’s why it’s really important that our social network is enriched people who are examples of mastery, leadership, courage, bravery, success and exceptionalism.

As we understand attitudinal contagion, we become more deliberate with whom we choose to spend our invaluable time with. Instead of hoarding friendships and relationships, we need to become a curator and select only those who elevate us and our lives.

We can embrace and trust our instincts and it’s okay to be picky. Unlike the majority, who are running after quantity, we can choose quality instead as we pick our social network.