What is the inner circle?
An inner circle is made up of the people you associate with due to a shared purpose—this includes family, friends, and associates. Together, they influence us as individuals, whether positively or negatively. Whether you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert, you either already have—or will eventually need—an inner circle. The makeup of this circle can either propel you toward greatness by helping you fulfill your goals through inspiration, motivation, and guidance, or it can hinder every step you take toward those goals. Think of yourself as a seed planted in the ground—you need the right mix of nutrients, sunlight, fertilizer, and care to grow and reach maturity. In the same way, the people and energy surrounding you are essential to your growth and success.
The type of friends you keep in your inner circle plays a major role in shaping your success, your failures, and the level of satisfaction you experience in life. Close friends, family, and associates have a powerful influence on the progress you make toward your dreams. That’s why your inner circle should be intentionally built to support you on the journey toward your desired destination. This journey should nourish you—physically, spiritually, emotionally, financially, and socially—ultimately improving your life.
Evaluating your circle can be challenging, especially when you’ve grown used to the people you spend your valuable time with. But the question remains: how do you decide who stays in your inner circle and who should go?
Here are 7 types of people you should consider having in your inner circle.
Inventors
There’s always something positive unfolding in the lives of inventors. They understand the power of dreaming and the drive to turn those dreams into reality. Inventors help you recognize your strengths, weaknesses, and talents—and through their own journey, they inspire you to stay focused, because you can relate to their path.
Winners
“Losing is not an option” and “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”—these are the mindsets winners live by. They understand the importance of finishing what they start. Winners in your circle serve as motivators and cheerleaders; they’ve achieved meaningful goals and can help keep you driven toward yours. With clarity about their own purpose, they’re often able to guide you in discovering and refining yours.

Partners
Partners are those who share similar interests and have much in common with you. You’ll likely spend a lot of time with them because of these shared passions and perspectives. Their understanding of you comes naturally, making them easy to relate to and connect with on a deeper level.
Networkers
Networkers help you to make needed connections that will further propel your efforts and assist you in achieving your goals.
Energizers
Some days are gruesome, to say the least! It sucks the life out of you. On those days, you will need a good laugh or a nudge to keep your chin up. Energizers are there to put a smile on your face. They bring refreshing energy allowing you to live in the moment stress-free.
Counselors
Some decisions are easier made than others. You need persons with whom you can seek advice to help you. Counselors help you think through issues and evaluate options, leading to better decisions.
Adventurers
Life is a journey—so what is it without adventurers? Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, there are things you dream of doing that may scare or stretch you. Adventurers are the ones who always have new ideas to explore, places they want to visit, and experiences they’re eager to try. They bring energy and excitement to your circle, helping you strike a healthy balance between working hard and living fully.
Taking control of your life starts with becoming aware of who you consistently surround yourself with. Make it a priority to align with people who are purpose-driven and have ambitious plans. Choose to be around those who are actively chasing their goals, building meaningful connections, and pursuing their dreams. Even if their path is different from yours, their energy will fuel your growth—and yours will do the same for them. Don’t be afraid to promote or demote people in your inner circle based on where you’re headed. Let this be a non-negotiable resolution for us all.

All Things Legal and More With Michelle Fanger Esq
In this episode we speak with Michelle T. Fanger is the founder of The Fanger Law Firm, PLLC. Michelle is a member of the Florida Bar and is also licensed to practice before the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, and the United States Tax Court. She actively practices before Executive Office for Immigration Review (the Immigration Court and the Board of Immigration Appeals).