Proximity & Transparency

I’ve been thinking about two things lately: proximity and transparency.

Being around successful people is great. There is tremendous value in being around people who think bigger, operate differently and have already accomplished what you’re trying to accomplish.

But consistently being around those people takes effort and planning.

Going to one event, being in the same room with someone successful or taking a picture with them isn’t enough.

Real proximity is intentional.

I have someone I trust who I regularly go to for perspective. I make time for those conversations because I know there is value in having someone who is willing to tell me the truth.

And that brings me to transparency.

One of my core values in business is transparency and getting to the point.

I don’t like wasting people’s time and I don’t want people wasting mine. I’d rather have an honest conversation, even if it’s uncomfortable, than dance around something just to make someone feel good.

But here’s what I’ve learned:

Honesty and transparency will either make you run or make you listen.

Because the truth sometimes hurts.

I’ve experienced this myself.

There have been things this person has told me that took months before I actually heard what he was saying.

Not because I didn’t understand the words.

I had blinders on.

Sometimes when you’re too close to something, the obvious isn’t obvious.

Then months later something happens and suddenly I’m like...

Damn. He was right.

That’s why I think repeated exposure to the right people and the right concepts is so important.

You might hear something today and dismiss it.

Then you hear it again.

And again.

Then one day it finally clicks.

That’s actually one of the reasons I write these Monday Mindset blogs.

I know I repeat myself sometimes.

Consistency. Execution. Relationships. Time. Building your own opportunities. Making decisions.

Maybe you read something today and think, I already know this.

But knowing something and actually seeing it in your own life or business are two completely different things.

Sometimes it takes months.

I know because it happens to me too.

So yes, surround yourself with successful people. But do it consistently and intentionally.

And more importantly, surround yourself with people you trust who are willing to tell you the truth—not just what you want to hear.

Then when someone gives you that transparency, you have a choice.

You can run from it. Or you can listen to it.

The truth sometimes hurts.

But sometimes it’s exactly what you need to hear.

Have a great week!