Written by Contributing blogger, Audrea Laffely. 
In a post earlier this year, I talked about the importance of investing in yourself. One of my key points was about finding your tribe. Your tribe defines who you are and where you are going, so surround yourself with people that are awesome, smart, and that you can learn from. In an era when only we can drive our own career and life, Seth Godin was ahead of the curve to argue for the importance of building tribes of like-minded people. Tribes shape the world, and groups like the November Project and IVY have built their business models based around tribes. Side note: If you haven’t yet, go to a November Project morning workout and an IVY event. You will thank me.

Over the last two years I have been making a conscious effort to cultivate the best tribe of people to surround me. The people I want to be around are those who are filling their heads with new ideas and ways of seeing the world. People who are living interesting, positive, and fascinating lives. Those who want to live with passion, adventure, and open, good hearts. These are the people that expose you to new ideas, books/movies, places to see, and new things to challenge yourself with.

This past weekend I realized how lucky I am to have found my tribe. I have an amazing group of friends, with different backgrounds and personalities, which really complement each other’s strengths. The people you hang out with have a huge impact on every aspect of your life, from your level of income to your level of happiness.  In addition, we have a subconscious tendency to model the behavior of those around us, so it’s VERY important to choose your tribe wisely.

Here are some tips I have picked up in the process to hopefully help you:

1. Listen to your inner voice and trust your instincts. If a friendship doesn’t feel positive, fulfilling, and enriching then it isn’t. When you’re creating or expanding your tribe, look for people who will lift you up, help you grow, recharge you, inspire you, and celebrate with you.
2. Think of the qualities you want your tribe to have and search out events that a centered around these qualities. Make an effort to talk to people at the event. You’ll be amazed at who you meet and the friendships formed.
3. Designer Andy Paige says… 1/3 of the people you come across will dislike you; 1/3 of the people you meet will be indifferent toward you; and 1/3 of the people you come into contact with will love you.  You’re looking for that that last 1/3.  Those are your people.  Don’t worry about the other 2/3.
4. Create time for you to be together with your tribe and set dates, even like three months in advance. Make time to be with YOUR people.

In closing, surround yourself with the best in order to be your best. Happy friendship forming!

#radiatedaily