“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV). When my boys were young, I would repeat the mantra… “Your friends are your future… your friends are your future.” I made a few unwise friend choices in my early teen years… and those bad decisions cost me. I didn’t want my sons to make the same mistakes.

The idea that “your friends are your future” also applies to leaders. Who you surround yourself withtoday is an accurate barometer of where you’ll end up tomorrow. John Maxwell puts it this way: “Those closest to you determine your success.” Or lack thereof.

Take an honest look at the people you consider your best friends. Not just in terms of their talent or experience or personality… but also in regards to their character. Ask yourself a few pointed questions:

• Do those closest to me encourage me to stretch and grow?
• Does my “circle of trust” tell me the truth even when it’s unpleasant?
• Do they help me dream big?
• Do those nearest to me have my back?