We all have heard the saying, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." Of course, this may seem like a cliché, but there is truth to this statement. Our friends and the people we hang around have a deep influence on our mindset and behavior, in other words, “Your Tribe Influences Your Vibe.”
Studies have shown that people tend to adopt the habits, beliefs, and attitudes of those around them. This is because humans are social creatures and have a deep-rooted desire to fit in and be accepted by their peers. If you ever had the opportunity to hear me deliver my keynote, then you know how true that was for me when I moved from Brooklyn, New York to Leesport, Pennsylvania when I was 14 years old. My life goal and mission at that time was to fit in and be accepted by my peers, nothing else mattered.
When we surround ourselves with positive and uplifting people, we tend to adopt a positive and optimistic mindset, which can lead to better mental health and overall well-being. On the other hand, if we associate with negative and toxic individuals, we may find ourselves adopting negative attitudes and behaviors. Think about it, how does your behavior and mindset change when you’re around uplifting and positive people? Do you feel motivated and start empowering others? And on the flipside, how does your mindset and behavior change when you’re around toxic and negative people? Do you feed into the blaming, complaining and gossiping?
Friends also have a significant impact on our decision-making process. Our Tribe can serve as a source of guidance and support when making important decisions, such as, what classes/courses to take, choosing a career path, or making lifestyle changes. When we have friends who are supportive and encouraging, it gives us the confidence and motivation we need to achieve our goals and overcome challenges.
Our Tribe can also have an impact on our physical health. Research has shown that our friends’ habits and behaviors can be contagious and can influence our own health-related behaviors, such as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet. For example, I am in a group chat with my older brother and two older sisters. Every morning we say, “good morning” to each other and I always follow up with “what are you all up too?” My brother’s answer is always the same, “at the gym.” His dedication and consistency motivated me, and slowly but surely, I started a consistent fitness routine. After a few weeks, one of my sisters started going back to the gym after a hiatus, and the other started to make plans to work out as well. Before we knew it, our regular sibling group chat turned into a fitness group chat where we started to share exercises of the day and our healthy meals. Now THAT'S a positive impact!
In conclusion, our Tribe plays a critical role in shaping our mindset and behavior. It is so important to surround ourselves with positive, supportive, and encouraging individuals who can help us grow and achieve our goals. By doing so, we can lead a happier and healthier life, and be well on our way to achieving our most desired goals. I challenge you to pay attention to your feelings and your thoughts next time you’re around your tribe. Are you feeling well and motivated or are you feeling down and out? Are those you surround yourself with energy givers or energy suckers? Are they contributing to your growth or stunting your growth?
As always, leave a comment below and let me know how your Tribe Influences Your Vibe, I would love to know!