"Unpopular Opinion: You Need to Leave Some People Behind to Move Forward"

Your Circle Shapes Your Growth

Personal note: Halloween is behind us, Melvina and I just celebrated 37 years of marriage, and we’re stepping into the holidays with intention. That shift of season always reminds me: the people we walk with shape the person we become.

You’re striving for personal growth, but not everyone around you shares your mindset.

🛑 You feel drained by negativity or lack of ambition.

🛑 You struggle to stay motivated without encouragement.

🛑 You wonder if it’s time to seek new connections that align with your journey.

The truth: Your circle influences your mindset, motivation, and direction. Choose community on purpose and you’ll elevate your growth—and deepen your faith.

“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” — Proverbs 13:20

Why Growth-Minded Relationships Matter

They challenge and inspire you. Being around ambitious people raises your internal ceiling.

They create accountability. The right friends help you keep promises to yourself.

They align with God’s best. Your environment can amplify the gifts God placed in you. (This is why I emphasize service, integrity, and treating people right in my work and relationships.)

A Biblical Picture: Paul & Timothy

Paul invested in Timothy’s growth, calling him to “fan into flame” his gift. That’s what wise relationships do: they identify potential and ignite it. Surround yourself with people who speak life into your calling and coach you forward.

“Fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you.” — 2 Timothy 1:6

A Seasonal Reflection

As we enter the holidays, we’re reminded how powerful community can be. This season is a chance to be intentional—re-centering on faith, gratitude, and the people who help us walk in wisdom. It’s why my content leans into emotionally charged, value-driven encouragement this month.

5 Questions To Build a Growth-Minded Circle

1️⃣ Who in my life encourages both my growth and my faith? → List the people who challenge and uplift you.

2️⃣ Where can I meet like-minded people? → Church groups, mastermind circles, and mentorship communities are strong starting points.

3️⃣ How can I contribute to a community of growth? → Be the friend/mentor you wish you had. Lead with service and integrity.

4️⃣ What boundaries do I need with negative influences? → “Bad company corrupts good character.” — 1 Corinthians 15:33

5️⃣ What Scripture will I hold as a filter for relationships? → “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17

How To Surround Yourself With Growth-Minded People

📝 Join communities that align with your vision. Seek rooms where faith, diligence, and generosity are normal.

📝 Limit exposure to chronic negativity. Loving people doesn’t require unlimited access.

📝 Seek mentors and accountability partners. I’ve rebuilt more than once by learning from wise guides and serving others with what I learned.

📝 Pray for discernment. Ask God to highlight your people and give you courage to step toward them. (This is how I start my mornings—asking for guidance and preparing my mind for the day.)

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9

A Reminder From My Journey

I’ve worn many hats—engineer, educator, and now a builder in digital business. Reinvention took faith, mentors, and a community that sharpened me. That’s why I help mid-career professionals and educators build income streams with integrity and service at the core.

This Week’s Action

List 3 wise, growth-minded people you’ll spend more time with this month.

Schedule one conversation (coffee, call, or Zoom) to encourage and be encouraged.

Pray for one strategic connection you haven’t met yet.

Your Turn: What’s one step you’ll take today to connect with more growth-minded people? Hit reply, write it down, and move on it.

Want more faith-driven strategies for relationships and personal development? Subscribe to Rekindle Weekly for practical wisdom and encouragement for the season ahead.