Earlier this year I met Leo Bottary, a leadership coach and professor, and the author of "The Power of Peers". His book is definitely worth reading - but his company was just as inspiring. The idea that the people you surround yourself with, will change you over time (for better or worse), is one that requires some time to digest and implement.

Today I had lunch with a person I only met very recently. We both Kiteboard, so the lunch was supposed to be around that topic. But we soon realized the common interest in other areas like self-reflection, purpose, and intention. The hypothesis came up that we would automatically surround ourselves with people who have similar views on personal development as we do - not because we needed the confirmation, but because we wouldn't have too much to talk to people who don't understand or share our views.

While this is very natural for any human being - after it is much easier to deal with people who are very much alike - it is also a double edged sword. Surrounding ourselves mainly with people who see the world like we do, will over time make us blind and unreceptive for new ideas and other views. Whether in politics, business, or a personal environment, this is a dangerous path.

Hence, in order for us to grow it is important to surround ourselves with a balanced mix of people. There is those that support us, no matter what (most likely family and very close friends). Then there is those that help us develop - people who inspire us, share our values and motives (hopefully a mutually reinforcing relationship). And there is the ones that challenge us - those who do not necessarily agree with our views because of their own experience or background.

A healthy mix will expose you to all those people with different intensity. And reflection on those interactions will allow to take away important lessons.