The idea that you are a blend of the 5 people you spend time with has a dangerous side. In fact, it's not exactly true.

In this episode, I break down why the Growth Mindset is actually about autonomy, not assimilation. I share the story of my best friend Laurie—a guy with zero ambition who taught me how to relax and actually saved my career during burnout.

I also look at Sahil Lavingia, who blended his Silicon Valley builder mindset with a country level ambitions to enjoy his success without chasing billions.

Real growth isn't about surrounding yourself with clones; it's about treating influence like a buffet. You take the relaxation from one friend, the drive from another, and the curiosity from a stranger you met for an hour. You are not a result; you are a selector.