We both rise and fall to the cultural and social expectations that are placed around us. Whether we are aware of it or not, our behavior is often influenced by the behavior of the people closest to us. 

As humans, we all have an innate sense of wanting to belong. Whether that is to a specific group or even just meshing with the general culture in which we live, everyone has this want built into them. 

This can be either a bad thing or a good thing depending on who you are surrounded by. 

In order for people in a group to grow and rise to the expectations of a group, individuals already a part of the group must be bold enough to take a stance in outlining what behavior is appropriate. This is done most effectively by actions, not just words. 

There is a scripture that says “as iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another”. A piece of iron cannot be sharpened by a piece of dull wood. Constantly trying to sharpen iron against a piece of wood will only result in the piece of iron becoming duller. 

Good culture cannot be created by just one person standing up for what is right or just one person trying to grow everyone else, although this is where it starts. Good culture is created when multiple people decide to come together in order to sharpen each other and from there, grow the whole group. 

We are all influenced by the people around us. If you are surrounded by pieces of wood, you will eventually become dull. If you are surrounded by iron, you will inevitably become sharper. 

Finding people around you who want to grow and are willing to push you to become who you want to be is one of the wisest decisions that you can make. 

Don’t settle for people or groups who dull the fire inside of you and make you less than what you know you can be. Find those who are willing to challenge you and push you to become better, as well as those who are farther ahead of you that you can emulate. 

Find people who see not just who you are, but who you can become.