Historian and political observer Steven Beschloss notes this week that “Strong, capable people surround themselves with strong, capable people.”
We become who we hang with is the second of my seven precepts for happiness. And we’ve all experienced what it’s like to work with and for people who lack strength of character and competence.
It is one hallmark of effective leadership and personal growth. Great leaders recognize that their success is deeply intertwined with the talents and motivations of their teams. Educator Eric Sheninger notes, “The best leaders surround themselves with intrinsically motivated individuals who will not only perform at a high level with little oversight but will also push the leader to reflect and grow continually.”
By engaging with people who possess diverse skills and perspectives, leaders can foster an environment that encourages innovation and continuous improvement.
Moreover, strong individuals often exhibit a willingness to stand up for others, demonstrating a commitment to collective well-being. This principle is encapsulated in the saying, “Strong people stand up for themselves, but stronger people stand up for others.”
Identifying strong capable people is a skill worth developing. It not only amplifies individual and organizational strengths but also cultivates a culture of mutual support and shared success.
