Success isn’t a solo journey. Throughout my career, I’ve discovered that the fastest path to achievement comes through connection—specifically through two powerful strategies that have transformed my professional life.
I firmly believe there are just two essential ways to reach your desired destination: ask someone who’s already there for guidance, and help others reach where you currently stand. This simple philosophy has been the cornerstone of my approach to business and life.
Many people are familiar with the concept that you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with. While there’s truth to this, my experience has shown me something more nuanced. I don’t just believe we’re the aggregate of our five closest associates—I believe we’re the aggregate of the various teams we play for, across different subjects, topics, and areas of expertise.
The Power of Playing for Multiple Teams
In my world, I consciously participate in numerous teams that align with my interests and goals:
- Blockchain technology
- Artificial intelligence
- Family relationships
- Health and wellness
Each of these teams serves a distinct purpose in my life, and I take on different roles depending on the context. Sometimes I’m the owner or leader of the team, making key decisions and setting direction. Other times, I’m the water boy—the person supporting from the sidelines, learning, and contributing in smaller but meaningful ways.
What matters most is that on each team, I’ve positioned myself to both give and receive value. I ensure there are people I can turn to for guidance when I need it, and others whom I can support with my own knowledge and experience.
The Give-and-Take Approach to Growth
This dual approach—asking for help and offering it—creates a powerful cycle of growth. When I reach out to someone further along the path than me, I gain insights that might have taken years to discover on my own. Their experience becomes my shortcut.
Conversely, when I help someone who’s where I once was, I not only contribute to their success but also reinforce my own knowledge and skills. Teaching is one of the most effective ways to master a subject.
The beauty of this system is its simplicity. You don’t need complex strategies or elaborate networking schemes. You just need to:
- Identify the position you want to reach
- Find someone who’s already there
- Ask them for specific guidance
- Look for opportunities to help others behind you on the path
This approach has allowed me to accelerate my growth in multiple areas simultaneously. While others might focus on climbing a single ladder, I’m able to develop across various domains by leveraging the collective wisdom of my teams.
Redefining Your Circle of Influence
The traditional advice to surround yourself with five great people is limiting. Instead, I encourage you to think in terms of teams and positions. Who’s on your health team? Your business team? Your personal development team?
For each area of your life, assemble a team of people who can help you grow. Be strategic about the positions you play on each team. Sometimes you’ll lead, sometimes you’ll follow, but always be clear about what you’re giving and what you’re receiving.
This team-based approach has been transformative in my journey from sports agent to entrepreneur and coach. It’s allowed me to expand my influence while continuously learning from those ahead of me on various paths.
The next time you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about how to progress, remember these two simple strategies: find someone who’s where you want to be and ask for their help, and look for opportunities to help others who are working to reach your current position. This give-and-take approach creates momentum that can carry you to heights you might never reach alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I approach someone who’s in a position I aspire to reach?
Start by offering value first. Research them thoroughly, engage with their content, and when you reach out, be specific about what you admire about their work and what guidance you’re seeking. Keep your request reasonable and respectful of their time. Remember that most successful people enjoy helping others who demonstrate genuine interest and initiative.
Q: What if I don’t feel qualified to help others yet?
Everyone has something valuable to offer, regardless of where they are in their journey. Even if you’re just starting out, you can share what you’ve learned so far, point people to resources that have helped you, or simply offer encouragement. The act of helping others will actually accelerate your own growth and confidence.
Q: How many different “teams” should I be part of simultaneously?
Focus on quality over quantity. I recommend starting with 3-5 key areas that align with your most important goals and values. As you become more comfortable with this approach, you can expand. The key is ensuring you can meaningfully contribute to and benefit from each team, rather than spreading yourself too thin.
Q: How do I know which position to play on each team?
Assess your current knowledge, skills, and experience in each area. In domains where you’re highly experienced, you might take leadership roles. In areas where you’re learning, adopt a more supportive position. Be honest about your capabilities, and don’t be afraid to start small. Your position on each team will naturally evolve as you grow.
Q: Can this approach work in highly competitive industries?
Absolutely. In fact, it works especially well in competitive environments. When competition is fierce, relationships and knowledge-sharing become even more valuable differentiators. Those who isolate themselves miss out on crucial insights and opportunities. The most successful people in any industry typically have strong networks of mentors, peers, and mentees.
