You want to be a Millionaire . . .

. . . then you have to hang out with Millionaires.

I use this idea loosely as my actual point behind the statement is this; if you are aspiring to reach a particular goal you need to be around people who have been there and done that - and can help you get there.  

If you are striving towards a goal it will help you greatly to have mentors who can guide and help you in avoiding as many pitfalls as necessary.  You may not be able to steer clear of ALL of them but if you can position yourself to make five mistakes instead of ten then I think making only 5 mistakes will win out every time. Being able to have access to people who can help you with your weaknesses and add valuable ideas to your mix of thoughts is something you should highly desire.

Additionally, when you are reaching for that goal, surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you is rule number one (particularly when you are starting your own business). I guarantee you, if you are the smartest person in the room, you will be in trouble. 

For some people doing this can be difficult because it could mean changing the crowd of people that you hang out with.  If the company that you keep doesn't contribute to your personal/professional growth then you may want to consider finding a new circle of friends and colleagues to share your time with.  This doesn't necessarily mean turning your back on your companions - it simply means you are being more conscious of who you spend your time with.   

Chasing your dreams and figuring out how to do so is never easy. Particularly when it comes to the dynamics of both personal and professional relationships.  But at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is keeping your eyes on the prize. That means positioning yourself with like minded individuals who can help you in going to where you want to be.