The last quarter of the year 2000 was my introduction to the science of achievement. Reading THINK AND GROW RICH was a turning point in my life. In this book, Napoleon Hill, the author talks about having a mastermind group. The Mastermind Group is described as a group of people of diverse backgrounds but with common interest.  The common interest is usually the attainment of wealth. Common interest may be however attainment of excellent physical health, social relations depending on what unites the Mastermind Group formed

Robert Kiyosaki in this myth shattering book on attaining financial freedom, talks about wealth creation being a team sport. He writes that lawyers, brokers, bankers and other professionals are an important team if you are serious about getting rich

The English language has several proverbs that serve to this message right to your subconscious mind. “Birds of the same feather flock together”

“The apple is never far away from the tree.” These proverbs are a testimony to this message

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” written by Steven r. Covey has spent 20 years on the business best seller list, riding on that message. So what is this message that I have been trying to explain from the beginning? To make the life of your dreams, you must associate with people who think in the same direction as you do, share the same vision as you do and who are willing to take action to make that vision a reality. To do that you must decide which direction you are headed in your life journey

Whatever level of anger, temptation or joy we feel, it is within our power to consciously make decisions regardless of our moods. Instant reactions to actions that threaten us are part of our conscious

In any marital art, we improve our level skill and power in direct proportion to the quality of our sparring partner. Instant reactions too can be restrained through training

Therefore, to make the life our dreams we need to associate with people who:

• Share the same vision as you do (have empires in their minds)
• Action oriented and focused in achievement of that vision
• Are willing to sacrifice time and leisure to realize that vision
• Are willing to constant improvement of their weakness and riding on the strength of the mastermind group
• Ready to spend a great deal of time with each other so as to strengthen the bond of the friendship and partnership
• Ready to learn from their mistakes without criticism from other members of the team
• Leverage their knowledge and skills in pursuit of the shared vision

So depending on your life goal or vision, the criteria above should help you make the right decision of the person you will call “My Friend”. That person you call “My Friend” determines the quality of your life. And remember, your choice of a friend should not be a result of an instant reaction.

Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you can become great. (Mark Twain)

Article By

Prosper Kahweza Twine