Have you ever heard the phrase “you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with”? It’s a quote by legendary business man Jim Rohn.

You can youtube Jim Rohn and listen to how and why this impacts you so much. If we are around people who are doing great things and living healthy, it can inspire us. Likewise, if we spend a lot of time with negative people who don’t believe hard efforts will lead to improvement, it can be uninspiring and even depressing.

Even if you already know and believe you should surround yourself with people who inspire you, it can be tough. Maybe you’re busy with family life or you live in a rural location. Whatever the problem, there is a way to solve it.  

I have a few people in my life who really inspire me. I spend a lot of time with them and I can feel the benefit in my work and personal life.  

What’s the secret?

I’ve never met them in person. Yet I’ve spent hundreds of hours with them in my car, at the gym, on my morning runs, and in my living room. I am of course listening to their audiobooks and podcasts. About 90% of the time I spend learning and being inspired is when I am in my car or exercising.  

Find podcasts or audiobooks of people who inspire you and plug them in while in your car or exercising for one week. Sure, it may not be as exciting as the latest pop song or football game analysis or as riveting as the latest gossip on the news. But force yourself to try it for one week.  

My bet is that you’ll discover something I did a few years ago. Spending time with inspiring people can help you radically improve your life, relationships, and your work. So be picky about who you spend your time with and make sure you get your daily dose of them. Even if it’s with someone you’ve never met.