We are often told we are the product of the 5 people we spend the most time with. This episode explores the cases where this isn't true and what we can learn from examining the relationships we have. We learn that actually, the most significant effect is from those that prevent us from being ourselves. Otherwise, we are free to choose the qualities we are inspired by regardless of how much time we spend with people. Questions to reflect on What are my strengths? When do I feel like I am being myself? I am putting my energy directly into the thing I want to do or is it postponed for some reason? Is there a faster way to reach the lifestyle I want? Who are my idols? Why do I look up to them? Could I have better idols? Who are 5 cool but very different friends to me, what would they tell me to do? Connect with Sam: Join the conversation on the social podcast app - Podvine Sam's newsletter on creativity and entrepreneurship - Explosive Thinking Sam's podcast on books - Wiser Than Yesterday Support the Show - Patreon If you enjoyed the podcast please subscribe and rate it. And of course, share with your friends! Timestamps 00:00 - What is a growth mindset 00:20 - You are not the 5 people you spend time with 01:00 - Be yourself 01:23 - The skier parable 04:08 - Don't be blocked from being yourself 04:40 - Best friends 06:30 - Opposite can work 08:50 - Choose your inspiration 09:36 - Small encounters can have butterfly effects 10:53 - Prioritise healthy relationships 11:30 - Avoid being generic groups/cliques 12:08 - Sahil Lavingia and GumRoad 13:53 - Variety is the spice of life 14:53 - Questions to journal on (see above) 16:05 - Life tips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.