How Our Friends Impact Our Success

Do Your Friends Shape Your Success and Wealth?

I’ve been thinking a lot about whether the people I hang out with influence my success and ability to build wealth.

Friends shape your mindset, habits, and even your financial decisions in ways you might not notice at first. When you’re around people who share your values—like ambition, optimism, or a healthy approach to money—it’s easier to stay focused on your goals. 

They inspire you, keep you accountable, and push you to think bigger. On the other hand, friends who are negative or stuck in limiting patterns can hold you back, making it harder to pursue your dreams or make smart financial choices.

I’ve also heard this advice: don’t take guidance from people who haven’t achieved what you’re aiming for. For example, if I want to start a business, I shouldn’t listen to someone who’s never tried entrepreneurship telling me it’s too tough or that I’ll never make money. 

Or if I’m considering stock investments, I shouldn’t let someone who’s never invested discourage me with warnings about risks while pushing safe options like fixed deposits. 

Success often comes from learning from those who’ve walked the path you’re on, not from naysayers who haven’t tried. 

Surrounding yourself with people who align with your goals—and have the experience to back it up—can make a huge difference in building wealth and achieving success.

My Current Situation

I’m struggling with a couple of friends whose negativity is really getting to me. One friend is obsessed with costs and prices, turning every conversation into a budget breakdown. 

Whether we’re planning a fun outing or I’m sharing an idea, they focus on how much it’ll cost or if it’s “worth it.” It’s exhausting, and it’s making me second-guess my spending, even when it aligns with my goals. 

I feel like I’m constantly defending my choices, and it’s messing with my confidence around money.

Then there’s another friend who can’t handle good news. Every time I share something exciting—like a work win or a new plan—they point out what could go wrong. 

“That’s great, but don’t get too excited; it might fall apart,” they’ll say. Their pessimism is like a dark cloud that dims everything. After hanging out with them, I feel drained, like my energy and motivation have been sucked away. 

It’s not just emotional—it’s affecting how I approach my goals, making me hesitate to take risks or celebrate my progress.

What I’m Going to Do About It

I’m ready to be more intentional about who I spend time with to protect my energy and focus on my goals. Here’s my plan:

1. Limit Time with Negative Friends: I’m cutting back on time with these friends, especially when I need a positive boost. I’ll keep things friendly but prioritise my well-being.

2. Seek Out Like-Minded People: I want to connect with people who share my values—optimism, ambition, and a balanced approach to money. 

3. Focus on My Goals: I’m recommitting to my financial and personal goals, like saving for the future and exploring new opportunities. Surrounding myself with supportive people will help me stay on track.

4. Be Honest When Needed: If the negativity or unsolicited advice continues, I might have a gentle talk with these friends about how their behavior affects me. They may not realize their impact.

5. Join Positive Communities: I’m exploring groups—online or in person—where people share my interests and aspirations, like financial freedom or personal growth. Being around those who lift me up feels like a game-changer.