Here are three psychological factors tied to the company we keep — indicating that we should all choose our relationships more wisely.
1. The Law of Averages
The law of averages is a lay term to describe the statistical probability of something happening and it doesn’t lie because it is based on mathematics. “The theory illustrates that the result of any given situation will be the average of all outcomes.”
In sales, this law teaches us that if we want to double or triple our sales revenue that we need to double or triple qualified prospects. This law can also be applied successfully in many areas of our lives — including relationships. Meaning that you should go in for (surround yourself with) more of what you actually want in your life to heighten your chances of attaining it.
For example, if you continue to associate with people below your own expectations, do not dream of surrounding yourself with more successful people; who in turn can catalyze your own success.
2. Groupthink
Groupthink, by definition is a psychological phenomenon that occurs within groups of people, where the desire for harmony in a decision-making group overrides a realistic appraisal of alternatives.
This can wreak havoc when fledgling entrepreneurs build relationships with others that don’t value similar goals or thought processes that are prerequisites for business success.
“Creativity is so delicate a flower that praise tends to make it bloom while discouragement often nips it in the bud,” said Alex Osborne, an advertising executive and the author of the creativity technique named brainstorming.
“Like it or not, human creativity has increasingly become a group process. ‘Many of us can work much better creatively when teamed up,’” said Osborne.
Therefore the implication of negative groupthink can sabotage you, your creativity and your business. The effects of groupthink often include rationalization, peer pressure and complacency … contributing to fatal flaws when it comes to decision making.
Your conformity to group values and ethics that hinder your personal development will negatively impact your business.
What group of people or relationships are negatively impacting your decision making?
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