Five Chimps Theory

"There's a theory that I call 'the five chimps theory'. In Zoology, you can predict the mood and behavior patterns of any chimp by which five chimps they hang out with the most. Choose your five chimps carefully." Naval Ravikant

Age old wisdom also counsel us to, "Choose Your Company Wisely". It can be attributed to all kinds of ages, the one when we were growing from childhood to teenagers or from teenagers to adults or thereafter. It can equally be attributed to personal sphere, professional world or social connections at large with same gravity.

Naysayers might dilute the exigency though, albeit Billy Joel comes with a sagely rejoinder.

"Today I am your champion,
 I may have won your hearts
 But I know the game
 You'll forget my name
 And I won't be here in another year
 If I don't stay on the charts"

                               
 Billy Joel (The Entertainer)

As a human being, we are extremely susceptible to the moods, emotions, and even the ways of thinking of those with whom we spend our time. "The people we surround ourselves with either raise or lower our standards. They either help us to become the best version of ourselves or encourage us to become lesser versions of ourselves. We become more like our friends. No man/woman becomes great on his/her own. It's the people around them help to make them great. We all need people in our lives who raise our standards, remind us of our essential purpose, and challenge us to become the best version of ourselves".

Napoleon & Talleyrand were quite opposite in many aspects of personal traits. Napoleon admired his minter's way of handling people, his wit & humor and his charming personality. In order to gain some of the traits, he ensured Talleyrand is working closely and as a result he was then able to imbibe some of the positive aspects in his favor.

Choosing your chimps wisely will either multiply or minimize your effectiveness.

• You need people close to you who can help you clarify and rethink a point, perspective or position. Sometimes, they challenge the positions as well in all good faith. Pay heed.
• Good filtering will increase the likelihood of good representation and also break the cycle of stress and distraction.
• Good leaders will lean in on the wisdom and knowledge of an inner circle. For details, I would recommend "The Wisdom of Crowds" by James Surowiecki.
• A helpful inner circle will encourage you to focus on your role and strengths.
• A good inner circle will love and honor you and desire what’s best for you.

When you surround yourself with other people on a constant basis, you are exposed to their personal values and ideals so it should come as no surprise that you may end up taking on some of their mentality as well. Be relentless with surrounding yourself with those who bring out the best in you. Your direction in life depends on it. And while you’re at it, have the courage to be a good friend to those who choose you.

#FiveChimpsTheory #NavalRavikant #WisdomOfCrowds #BillyJoel #RobertGreene #ElynSaks #LifeLessons