Takeaway: Your achievements will depend, in large part, on whom you surround yourself with. Choose wisely and watch out for this common pitfall.
The Pygmalion Effect has shown that we rise and fall based on the expectations placed on us.
If your teachers, partners, friends, and bosses all expect you to perform at a high level, you will tend to rise to meet these expectations.
Conversely, if those same folks expect very little of you, most will be doomed to give very little of themselves toward any big accomplishments.
The most stunning reality of this effect is that it’s entirely perceptual.
High-achieving and low-achieving outcomes occur due to the level of people believing in you regardless of your actual ability level.
This is why surrounding yourself with inspiring, productive, and motivated individuals is one of the most powerful things you can do to position yourself toward a better future.
Consider this insight, and next week we’ll build on this to explore another aspect of the power of expectation: The Underdog Effect.
~ Coach Alex
P.S. If you’re reading this then you’re likely capable of a lot more than you give yourself credit for. Get out there this week and show yourself that you can.