Quick: Name the 5 people (outside your family) you’re in contact with the most.

You probably don‘t ever think of them this way, but those are your own personal influencers. And they are really important.

Thanks to the advice of a mentor, my professional and personal life changed the day I realized how much the people I surrounded myself with would determine who I became and what I accomplished.

I was a young, ambitious practice owner. I had an idea of the person, leader and entrepreneur I wanted to become. But my actions—and the people in my social circle—weren’t exactly pushing me in that direction. (As you’ll hear in the video below, it was a lot more happy hour than strategic planning back then.)

Today, I’ll tell you how the 5 people you hang with the most shape your personal and professional success. I’ll also tell you how being intentional about choosing your community and your coaches can put you on exactly the path you want, for your business and your life.