Leveling Up Isn’t Just Business — It’s Personal

As we grow in business, something uncomfortable but unavoidable happens: we outgrow people.

Not because we think we’re better. Not because we’re disloyal.But because growth demands alignment.

In real estate—and especially in commercial real estate—you learn quickly that success isn’t just about numbers, locations, or timing. It’s about decision-making, discipline, and who you allow in your circle.

Business Growth Requires Personal Growth

The person you were five years ago is not the person you are today.And the people who fit your life back then may not fit your future now.

In the early stages of business, everyone is grinding. Everyone is “figuring it out.” But as you begin to level up—owning businesses, managing employees, supporting family, carrying real responsibility—you can’t afford to stay surrounded by chaos, poor choices, or misaligned priorities.

This is where a lot of people get stuck.

“Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.”— Dan Peña

Your Network Is Your Net Worth

We hear it all the time: "your network is your net worth." But what does that actually mean?

It means the people you spend the most time with influence:

• how you think

• how you act

• what you normalize

• what you tolerate

• and ultimately, what you become

These are no longer schoolyard friendships.These are business relationships, strategic alliances, and networks that either elevate or erode your future.

If the people around you aren’t aligned with what’s good for you—your health, your family, your business, your future—then walking away isn’t betrayal. It’s wisdom

“Bad company ruins good morals.”— 1 Corinthians 15:33

Loyalty vs. Enabling

One of the most powerful things I recently heard came from a talk by Jordan Peterson, and it stopped me in my tracks.

He challenges the idea that longevity equals value in a friendship.

Just because you’ve known someone for a long time doesn’t mean they’re good for you now.

He asks a hard question:“Where is the value in this friendship?”

That doesn’t mean perfection.That doesn’t mean agreement on everything.But it does mean direction. If someone is aiming down—and pulls you down when you try to move up—you are not helping them by allowing that behavior. That’s not loyalty. True loyalty wants the best for someone.Enabling misbehavior only keeps both people stuck.

You Can’t Fix Others—But You Can Fix Yourself

Another powerful takeaway: you cannot fix other people’s problems.But you can examine your own behavior.

Before pointing outward, ask:

• What am I tolerating that I shouldn’t?

• What am I normalizing that’s holding me back?

• What am I afraid to let go of?

Sometimes growth doesn’t require confrontation.Sometimes it requires distance.

Listening Builds Influence

One of the most underrated leadership skills—both in business and personal life—is listening.

Not insisting on being right. Not forcing your viewpoint.But listening long enough to build trust.

When people feel heard, influence follows.

That’s how relationships evolve.That’s how leadership is earned.

What Commercial Real Estate Teaches You About Life

As a commercial realtor, I see both sides every day.

I sell:

• businesses that are failing

• buildings going into foreclosure

• leases being terminated

• owners who lost control

And I also work with:

• buyers positioned to acquire those properties

• investors ready to step in

• entrepreneurs who planned ahead

Here’s the hard truth I see over and over again:

Most business failures don’t start in the business.- They start in someone’s personal life.

• Poor decisions.

• Unhealthy relationships.

• Addictions.

• Distractions.

• The wrong people.

Those things bleed into professional life every time.

Going Into 2026: Make Room to Grow

As we move into 2026, this is the season to reassess.

Remove what’s holding you back.Create space for people who:

• challenge you

• support your growth

• want to see you win

• are building something themselves

If you lose friends along the way, that’s okay.

Come meet new ones.

Come network.

Come surround yourself with people who are evolving—because you are too.

Growth isn’t personal. But it is intentional. And sometimes, leveling up means letting go.

Growth happens in the right rooms—if you’re ready to connect with like-minded business owners and professionals, check out our upcoming events below and join us.