Every few months I do a self-assessment and one of the questions included in that mix is, "Who are the Top 5 people in my inner circle?" In retrospect, I can clearly see how the company I have kept in my inner circle have inspired me to take creative risks, introduced me to new ideas, and expanded my view of the world. I ask myself a follow-up question, "How am I contributing value to their lives as well?"

True love moves freely in both directions. We do our most generous and meaningful work when we are surrounded by those who share our vision. Be selective. Life is too short to settle for mediocrity.