_edited.jpg)
Sam Altman, a prominent entrepreneur and former president of Y Combinator, believes in the transformative power of surrounding yourself with ambitious people. According to him, your circle should challenge you, making you more inquisitive and pushing you to think bigger. Altman points out that 98% of people in the world will discourage you from pursuing bold, ambitious ideas. They’ll tell you it’s too risky or unrealistic. But the key to unlocking your potential lies in associating with the 2% who encourage you to reach beyond your comfort zone.
Photo: Getty Images
The Power of Positive Influence
Why does Altman stress this so much? In his experience, the right environment is critical for success. When you surround yourself with people who are ambitious and forward-thinking, their mindset rubs off on you. They help you look at problems in new ways, explore ideas you hadn’t considered, and provide the encouragement needed to keep pushing forward. These are the people who inspire you to innovate, helping you see that the impossible may be more attainable than you think.
Avoiding the Trap of Doubt
On the flip side, Altman warns against the influence of those who will try to pull you down. These individuals may not intend harm, but their cautious nature can stifle your ambitions. They’ll tell you, "That’s too risky," or "That’s not realistic." This type of doubt is dangerous, as it can slowly erode your confidence and willingness to take bold steps. Altman believes that innovation requires an unshakable belief in your vision, and this belief is best nurtured by surrounding yourself with dreamers and doers who aren’t afraid to take risks.
Building a Network for Success
In the entrepreneurial world, having a supportive and ambitious network is as essential as your skillset. Altman encourages entrepreneurs to build a tribe of people who are just as passionate about pushing boundaries as they are. This creates a cycle of ambition where you not only grow personally but also help others around you do the same. With the right group, your lofty goals feel more attainable because you’re constantly reminded that big dreams are possible—if you have the right team by your side.
Final Thoughts
Altman’s advice is straightforward: who you spend your time with shapes your future. If you want to succeed, you need to consciously seek out those who will challenge you to think bigger and aim higher. Avoid those who say, “That’s too ambitious,” and instead, align yourself with the ones who say, “How can we make this happen?” Surrounding yourself with visionaries and risk-takers is not just a strategy—it’s a necessity for anyone who wants to achieve greatness.
Listen to Sam Altman:
Comments