On this subject, I could write a novel. Our environment has the ability to alter our perspectives, our progress and our potential. The power it has over us is based on the amount of power we allow it to have.

I grew up in an environment where most people assume that people cannot succeed. I was blessed to be cocooned within a loving family that nurtured me to the best of their ability; however, the outer world that I faced was one where struggle, violence, poverty, crime and hardship was commonplace. Did I allow that to stop me from growing? Absolutely not.

What gave me motivation was the fact that I had opportunities to go outside of my environment to see that the things I was exposed to were not the be all and end all. That there was much more that I could access. Granted, even within the challenges that I faced, I was still able to find the best of the circumstances. I was also able to surround myself with people who were also focused on growth and success.

Who we choose as our associates, greatly impacts our success in life. Are you surrounding yourself with people who are serious about their growth? or are you just hanging on to the people that you know because that's all that you have known?

If you want to see dramatic changes in your life, consider exploring and changing your environment. John Maxwell says this in the 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, "if you're always at the head of the class, then you're in the wrong class."

As well, "whether you are a success or failure in life has little to do with your circumstances; it has much more to do with your choices. " Nido Qubein

Change your environment...change your life! Who are you associating with? Who are the 5 people you spend the most time with? What are they doing with their lives? Are you and them on the same page or are you on a different wavelength? Assess your environment, that will give you an indication as to whether or not you have outgrown your circle and are in need of a change so that you can grow and blossom.

Have a blessed week ahead,