Simply looking at the average citizen who is heavy in debt, fearful of their jobs and watch more television than they do in other activities should give you some idea about whether or not these close friends and family will be a help or hindrance to you.
Friends and family have a great influence on our lives. Our memories of them are filled with good and bad times. Most importantly, they are seen as people who have a general interest in how well or poor we are doing. To earn a good wage, to graduate from college, your first career, your last sporting events have been wonderful experiences for these people. However, if you want to succeed in business you must know who and where to get your business advice.
To categorize the uses of each person you meet is not mean spirited or cold. It simply means that you know where the strengths of each individual lie. For example, you wouldn't go to your accountant friend for advice on how to fix your car. Likewise, you wouldn't go to your bankrupt friend for advice on how to increase your financial suaveness.
Some friends are great “drinking buddies”, some family members are always willing to offer a helping hand, others are people you can play a game of golf with while others are strictly for emotional support. Each of these people has a place in your life that is both special and precious. A few of them might even be willing to invest in your endeavors if only to see you succeed.
Friends and family are people you would normally go to when you need emotional support and fun companionship. A few of these people may actually be the one's who have knowledge about your business but this is few and far between. If you desire to succeed in business you need to associate with people who know something about business. These are the people who have experienced the same problems that you have experienced and are likely to give great advice.
People who succeed make a habit out of allocating some time to people who think like they do. Simply by spending time with other business professionals you are able to accumulate large tracks of knowledge and progressive attitudes. Many of these business men or women are willing to give you their time and mentorship without anything in return. They like to help you succeed and take great joy in being part of your success.
Despite a lack of knowledge, friends and family may not be so excited about your business. They may secretly resent your successes, due to their own shortcomings, or they may be fearful about you getting hurt or financial ruined. Business is about taking risk, and failure is a regular part of the game. To win at the game of business you will have to be fearless in your approach and willing to invest your time and money. This requires constant support, knowledge and commitment which family and friends are not always willing or able to give.
