When it comes to building a successful business, one of the most crucial decisions you can make is to surround yourself with good people. I’m not just talking about talent or skills — though those are valuable, too. I mean finding people who are genuinely invested in seeing you succeed, who bring positive energy, and who contribute a diversity of perspectives. Surrounding yourself with these kinds of people can transform your business trajectory and, ultimately, your life.
Here’s why having the right people around you is essential for business success and some tips on how to create and sustain a network of these “good people” in the Denver business community and beyond.
1. Positive Energy Fuels Progress
Every business has its ups and downs. The people you surround yourself with are often the difference between feeling motivated to push through or feeling like throwing in the towel. Good people bring energy, optimism, and a problem-solving mindset. They won’t sugarcoat challenges, but they’ll help you find ways to address them, pushing you forward rather than letting you stagnate.
Imagine you’re in a brainstorming session with people who believe in your vision. This energy is contagious; it fuels innovative thinking and provides the support we all need to face setbacks with resilience. In contrast, negative or disinterested people can drain your energy, pulling focus from solutions and making challenges seem insurmountable.
Tip: Seek out people with a growth mindset — those who focus on learning, improvement, and innovation, rather than dwelling on obstacles. You can find them in local Denver business groups, like the Chamber of Commerce, entrepreneurial meetups, and professional associations.
2. Diverse Perspectives Bring Better Solutions
Building a network of people with varied backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints will give you a more well-rounded understanding of your business challenges and opportunities. Good people come in all forms: mentors, business partners, trusted advisors, and even clients who challenge your thinking. Their fresh perspectives can shed light on blind spots, helping you make smarter decisions.
In the Denver area, our diverse community offers countless opportunities to connect with people from different industries, demographics, and professional experiences. By attending local networking events, you can meet small business owners, corporate professionals, and creative entrepreneurs, each with unique insights to share.
Tip: Be intentional about cultivating diversity in your circle. Don’t just rely on your immediate network — look to broaden it by attending events outside your usual industry or even taking on a mentor who challenges your perspective.
3. Accountability Keeps You on Track
Good people hold you accountable. They won’t let you off the hook when it comes to your goals, and they’ll be there to encourage you to take action, even when it’s tough. Accountability partners and mentors help you set realistic yet ambitious goals, and they’ll remind you why you started when you feel like giving up.
In my experience, joining peer groups or mastermind groups is a great way to get this type of support. Network in Action (NIA), for instance, creates accountability structures within its member groups, where business owners in Denver can rely on one another to stay on course and meet goals. The right group can serve as both a sounding board and a support system, creating the accountability every business owner needs.
Tip: Schedule regular check-ins with an accountability partner or join a mastermind group in the Denver area. It’s much easier to stay focused when you know you’ll be asked about your progress!
4. Trusted Advisors Guide Sound Decision-Making
Every business owner needs a trusted circle of advisors. This could include professionals like financial advisors, legal experts, and industry veterans who know the ropes and can offer advice that’s backed by experience. Good advisors provide clarity, helping you see beyond immediate gains to make decisions that align with your long-term goals.
As a Certified Value Builder and an Exit Planning Advisor, I’ve seen firsthand how businesses thrive when their leaders have access to guidance from skilled advisors. Surrounding yourself with these experts in areas like finance, legal, and operational strategy gives you a competitive edge. Many organizations in Denver, such as SCORE and Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), offer opportunities to connect with experienced mentors who can guide you through complex business decisions.
Tip: Invest time in finding mentors and advisors who genuinely understand your vision and can provide guidance based on experience, not just theory. Leverage Denver’s many resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses to build these connections.
5. Supportive Peers Reduce Stress and Increase Joy
Being a business owner is challenging, and it can get lonely. Good people make the journey easier, celebrating your successes and helping you see the light during hard times. A strong network doesn’t just contribute to business success — it also improves your well-being. In the Denver business community, I’ve seen many friendships and partnerships born from a shared understanding of the entrepreneurial journey. When you’re connected with people who truly get it, you’ll find that the daily stresses feel lighter, and the wins are much sweeter.
Tip: Make time for social and networking events in the local business community, whether that’s attending an industry mixer or a charity event. These aren’t just for professional growth; they’re also chances to form genuine friendships with like-minded people who understand your journey.
Building Your Circle: Start Local, Think Long-Term
The process of surrounding yourself with the right people starts with taking small steps to expand your network thoughtfully. Denver has a rich entrepreneurial ecosystem that’s perfect for making connections — from small business meetups to niche industry gatherings. By focusing on connecting with people who bring positivity, accountability, diversity, and expertise, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success and satisfaction.
In the end, the people around you are your greatest asset. Business is always a team effort, even if you’re a solo entrepreneur. By choosing to build relationships with good people who genuinely want to see you thrive, you’re investing in the strongest possible foundation for your business.
So, take a moment today to evaluate your current circle. Who in your network genuinely uplifts and supports you? Who challenges you to be better? Surround yourself with those people, and watch your business — and your life — grow in ways you never thought possible.
For Denver Metro Professionals
If you're a business owner in the Denver metro area looking to surround yourself with like-minded, supportive professionals, consider joining one of our Network in Action (NIA) groups. NIA is more than just networking — it’s about building relationships with people who are genuinely invested in your success and who offer encouragement, accountability, and real business insight.
Our Denver-based groups bring together trusted advisors, entrepreneurs, and experts across industries, creating a positive environment where everyone can grow and thrive together. I invite you to come check out an upcoming meeting, experience the NIA difference, and see how the right community can elevate your business!
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