Influences shape life in various ways. Having a child involves challenges but the end justifies the means. Garbage in, garbage out - the inputs determine the outputs. The people you surround yourself with greatly impact who you become. Negative and toxic people can derail your life so it is critical to weed them out. Pay close attention to the individuals in your life, as they have a significant influence on your thoughts and feelings. They are key variables in shaping your life, even more than the information you consume or the environment you are in.