Evaluating Your Associations (Part Two)

Two weeks ago we took a look at the power of influence in our lives and how it is possible to be nudged off course a little at a time until finally, we find ourselves asking, "How did I get here?"

We then asked three key questions:

1) "Who am I around?" You've got to evaluate everybody who is able to influence you in any way.

2) "What are these associations doing to me?" That's a major question to ask. What have they got me doing, listening to, reading, thinking and feeling? You've got to make a serious study of how others are influencing you, both negatively and positively.

3) "Is that okay?" Maybe everyone you associate with has been a positive, energizing influence. Then again, maybe there are some bad apples in the bunch. All I'm suggesting here is that you take a close and objective look. Everything is worth a second look, especially the power of influence. Both will take you somewhere, but only one will take you in the direction you need to go.

This week we wanted to discuss three ways to handle associations or relationships that are holding you back.

1) Disassociate.

This is not an easy decision, nor something you should take lightly, but in some cases it may be essential (please don't email me asking to advise you about this, only you can decide). You may just have to make the hard choice not to let certain negative influences affect you any more. It could be a choice that preserves the quality of your life.

2) Limited association.

Spend major time with major influence and minor time with minor influences. It is easy to do just the opposite, but don't fall into that trap. Take a look at your priorities and your values. We have so little time at our disposal. Wouldn't it make sense to invest it wisely?

3) Expanding your associations.

This is the one I suggest you focus on the most. Find other successful people that you can spend more time with. Invite them to lunch (pick up the tab) and ask them how they have achieved so much or what makes them successful. Now, this is not just about financial success, it can be someone that you want to learn from about having a better marriage, being a better parent, having better health or a stronger spiritual life.

It is called association on purpose - getting around the right people by expanding your circle of influence. And when you do that, you will naturally limit the relationships that are holding you back. Give it a try and see for yourself.

To Your Success,

Jim Rohn

Reproduced with permission from Jim Rohn's Weekly E-zine. Copyright 2005 Jim Rohn International. All rights reserved worldwide. To subscribe to Jim Rohn's Weekly E-zine, go to http://Jim-Rohn.InspiresYOU.com

---

Become a Good Observer

We must never allow a day to pass without finding... Read More

Powering Up Your SUCCESS Mechanisms!

An effective self- concept generates the desire to strive for... Read More

Leading And Influencing An Audiance Of One Or A Hundred

Because Not All Skills Are Equal?Public Speaking MasteryHello,Tom Cruise is... Read More

Ever Find Yourself Saying I Want My Instant Money Now?

If that sounds like you, you're not alone. Everyone needs... Read More

Success Formula Revealed - How You Can Apply The Ultimate Success Formula?

When you analyze the traits of successful people, you will... Read More

A Simple Idea from a Billionaire

It's simple and powerful.The philosophy of successful people is often... Read More

Self Improvement and the Power of Concentration

One the most important Self Improvement skills to develop to... Read More

Learning From Failure--What To Do When You Blow It!

Becoming successful is not easy. We all get tossed around... Read More

The Dynamics of Competitive Mentality

Life is not a competition.Not at all. Life itself is... Read More

Plants, Herbs and Roots For Prosperity

Plants of all kinds (including trees), herbs and roots have... Read More

Your Money or Your Life!

Quote of the month: Am I working to live or... Read More

Do You Know Your Success Barriers?

I can tell, with 95% accuracy, if you are going... Read More

Success: By The Numbers

What is "success"? Why does it seem everyone wants "success"?... Read More

Success Lessons From Josey Wales

The Outlaw Josey Wales is an interesting Western that I... Read More

What We Can Do To Guarantee Our Own Success

There are so many internet marketing schemes out there so... Read More

Personal Development Legend Jim Rohn Turns 70 and Still Going Strong

Jim Rohn, noted leader and speaker in the personal development... Read More

Success At Any Time?

It goes without saying that we are unlikely to experience... Read More

The Disciplines of Success

Success, in the dictionary, is defined as, "The achievement of... Read More

Success Lessons I Learned From My Single Mom

I was at a dinner party the other night when... Read More

19 Good Questions For Living The Good Life (Just The Right Question To Get Just What You Desire)

It happened again in class. While sharing my insights on... Read More

How To Prepare Yourself Mentally For Success

Okay, so you've finally made that big decision to start... Read More

Education Leads To A Healthier And Happier Life

Do you feel you lead a healthy and happy life?... Read More

Candleburning 101

One of the questions that I am asked most often... Read More

Stop Juggling, and Start Achieving! Three Steps to the Top!

Want more success in your business or professional life? Here's... Read More

Change Your Results by Changing Your Expectations

Our expectations get us into a lot of trouble and... Read More

Practical Nine-Step Guide to Max Productivity

Step 1: List all the business activities that you complete... Read More

Creating Your Own Success Support System

People who are on the same journey tend to band... Read More

The #1 Way to Control Your Mind for Success!

People say: "One can't help one's thoughts." But one can.... Read More

Elements of Success

There are twelve necessary elements involved in achieving success:1. Spend... Read More

Want Better Outcomes? Check Your Perspectives!

In my work with clients, the issue of perspectives comes... Read More

An Image Makeover that will Change Your Life Forever

Have you ever met people who exude charm and charisma?... Read More

The Need To Be Successful

The need to be successful. This is the bottom line... Read More

Perseverance is the Ability ...

"Perseverance allows you to get back on track when you... Read More