How to Build Your Own Personal Board of Directors

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Ever wonder how some people seem to always have it together? Like they’ve got this secret superpower squad behind them, helping them tackle every challenge? Well, here’s a little secret: they just might. And after today, you could too.

Let’s start by acknowledging something important: you can’t do it all alone. Success, joy, growth—it all takes a village. But instead of a village, what if you had a personal board of directors? Think of it like a dream team, there to guide, inspire, and give you the kick in the pants you need when you start to slack off.

So, who exactly belongs on this board, and why should you care? You’re about to find out. But first, let me tell you this: if you share this article, not only are you about to build a team for yourself, you’ll be making someone’s day by letting them know how important they are to you. Don’t you want to be that kind of person?

1. The Gratitude Guru You know that one friend who is always thankful for everything? They never let a day go by without appreciating life and everyone around them. This is the person who radiates positivity like a human sunbeam. When you’re having the worst day ever, they remind you to find the silver lining. Their enthusiasm for life is contagious, and after spending time with them, you can’t help but feel better. Don’t you already have someone like this in your life? If not, you’re missing out!

2. The Energy Bomb This person doesn’t just show up—they show up like a lightning bolt. After a conversation with them, you’re ready to rip your shirt off Hulk-style and charge at life. Their energy is so infectious that you feel like you can conquer any obstacle. You know who I’m talking about. These aren’t the people who drain you after five minutes; they fuel you. In my case, that’s Garrett Marcus Kamark (yeah, I’m calling you out, buddy). It’s been a while since we’ve caught up, but I always leave our talks buzzing with energy. Who’s your Garrett?

3. The Brutal Truth Teller Next on the list is the person who gives it to you straight. And I mean straight. No sugar-coating, no fluff, just the raw, honest truth. Their feedback might sting a little, but you know it’s coming from a place of love. When you need someone to call you out on your nonsense, this is the person to go to. It might hurt your feelings, but guess what? You’re going to grow because of it. Think you can handle it?

4. The Mission-Driven Master This person wakes up every day with a fire in their belly and a to-do list that would make most people cry. They’ve got goals and they’re on a mission to achieve them—no excuses, no distractions. Being around them makes you want to step up your game. They hold you accountable, and before you know it, you’re more disciplined too. I’m still on the hunt for someone like this to keep me on track (applications are open).

5. The Doer Everyone talks about getting things done, but this person? They’re actually doing it. Every. Single. Day. They’re the ones who don’t just talk about their goals—they smash them. They’re building businesses, finishing projects, and making things happen while others are still in the planning phase. If you’ve got a doer in your life, lucky you. And if you’re that person and I didn’t shout you out here, well, you know where to send your complaints!

6. The Solution Seeker We all hit roadblocks, but this person? They’re already halfway to a solution while you’re still scratching your head. Problems don’t faze them—they see every obstacle as an opportunity. When you feel stuck, they help you think outside the box and keep moving forward. Keep this person close—they’ll help you turn setbacks into breakthroughs.

7. The Divergent Thinker This person sees the world completely differently. When most people see limits, they see possibilities. Their ideas might sound wild at first, but they’re the kind of out-of-the-box thinkers who drive innovation. They push you to challenge your assumptions and try new things. For me, that’s Brian Davis . Brian, your creative brain is something to behold, and by the way, everyone, if you’re looking for alpaca socks that work in 100-degree weather (yes, really), check out his sock brand at hollowsocks.com. Crazy, right?

8. The Joy-Bringer Last but definitely not least, you need someone who radiates joy. They’re the kind of person who just makes everyone around them feel better—without even trying. Their laugh is infectious, their presence is uplifting, and when you’re with them, life feels a little lighter. If you have this person in your life, cherish them, and tell them how much they mean to you. Heck, send them this article and let them know they bring you joy.

Now, here’s the challenge: think about your own personal board of directors. Do you have all eight of these people in your life? If not, maybe it’s time to find them. And if you do have them, don’t just keep it to yourself—let them know! Imagine how much it would mean to hear from someone that they’re the joy, the energy, or the solution-seeker in your life.

So, what’s your next step? Start building your board. Start telling people how they’ve made an impact. And if you really want to make someone’s day, share this article with them. You never know, you might just be the reason someone’s whole year turns around.

And if you don’t have these people yet? Well, maybe it’s time for a change of scenery. The right crew is out there waiting for you to find them. Go build your board—you’ve got this!

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