Friends

"Great leaders usually have a lot of great friends, and friends are, by definition, people who lead others to higher ground while at the same time helping them enjoy the journey."   Jim Ritchie

I have really begun to think about the people I am surrounded by.  There are some that I don't have a lot of choice - for instance, co-workers, employers, and even family members.  But there are a lot of times that I can choose.  In those moments, am I surrounding myself by others who will help "lift me to higher ground while at the same time helping me enjoy the journey"?  

Am I that friend, the kind of person that helps lift others, helps them see the positive and find joy in even the small moments?  There is more joy in being around these type of people.  Sometimes I get caught up in what is not right or perfect, or a neverending list of things to do, and miss the joy of the journey.  Sometimes, I don't even want to be around myself because I get stressed out.  I don't need to have glory and recognition among my peers.  In fact, I'd rather be in the background.  But I do want to be known as an optimistic person who can help others.  

This is a life lesson that will benefit me not only professionally, but in my family, at church, and in life.  Where can I begin to make this change?