I tend to write a lot about having the right influences around you. Yet, it is impossible for me to overstate how important that is. I think of world class athletes like Titus Young and Josh Gordon who had wealth, ability, popularity and squandered it all because the people they shared their lives with. It is no small task to recognize that the people in your life are hinderances, let alone find the strength to do something about it. There were times in my career I changed roles (taking a pay cut as a result) because I needed to get away from toxic people. Make no mistake: There are individuals in our society that are so miserable that their only recourse is to thrive off the misery of others.
There is no real secret to this other than to be mindful of your relationships and afford them the precious time and attention they need in order to thrive and in order for you to be keenly aware of the impact those relationships have on you. This is as true in the workplace as it is in your personal life. Do the people around you make you better, weaker, or do they have no impact at all?