One of the best pieces of advice I ever received was, “Surround yourself with people that are better than you, especially in the areas you are weaker.” This was contrary to the lie I had heard saying that great leaders don’t have weaknesses.

We all can be a leader, it doesn’t require a title or position in a company. In addition, we all need mentors and peers to keep us strong and healthy on the inside both personally and professionally. We need people in our lives who don’t take from us but instead replenish us. These are people who can coach you and invest in you, as well as peers who can work alongside you and hold you accountable. Those who can notice when you are not yourself, and remind you of how brilliant you are when you can’t see it for yourself.

I was really nervous to be that vulnerable with someone and commit to accepting guidance from another, I felt like I was supposed to have all of the answers. But when I finally got the courage, I asked a contact that I respected, whose name is Rick, to commit to speaking the truth into my life and to help me grow both as a business leader and a person. He actually accepted the invitation and we met regularly for a couple of years. I learned so much during that time! What was surprising was Rick said he felt he got more out of being a mentor than I received being a mentee. Over the years I’ve invited a number of people in my life to be mentors, peers, and mentees and all have made me the better person I am today.

I encourage you to take a minute and write down some names of those who coach or will work and invest in you. Next, write down some names of those who are peers that can hold you accountable. Finally, write down some names of those who might learn from you and you can elevate to be even greater than they are. Devote time and effort to these relationships. Meet with them, and ask if they will help you grow. Who knows what you can learn?

Toby