Being Successful: The Environment as a Success Factor
Original article: 2023-12-21. English translation. Programme details reflect the original publication date.
Introduction
If you want to be successful, you need to realise that success does not just happen. It is the result of hard work, planning, and determination. But there is another important factor that can significantly influence your success: your environment.
Environment and success
The term environment refers to the surroundings you are in. It includes the people you associate with, the places you spend time, and the activities you engage in.
Your environment has a major influence on your mindset, your values, and your behaviour. It can motivate and inspire you, but it can also hold you back and hinder you.
The effects of the environment
To understand how your environment can influence your success, let us look at three different examples:
- A top athlete
If you surround yourself with top athletes, you will probably be motivated to achieve peak performance yourself. You will learn how to focus on your goals and how to push your limits.
- A successful entrepreneur
If you surround yourself with successful entrepreneurs, you will learn how to start and run a successful business. You will benefit from their experience and knowledge.
- A bank robber
If you surround yourself with bank robbers, you will probably start to adopt their mindset and values. You might even become a bank robber yourself.
How to find the right environment
If you want to be successful, it is important to be in an environment that supports your goals.
Here are a few tips on how to find the right environment:
- Define your goals. What do you want to achieve in your life? Once you know what you want, you can specifically look for people who can support you.
- Find role models. Who are the people you admire and want to learn from? Look for ways to get in touch with them.
- Join a community. There are many communities centred around specific topics or interests. In a community, you can exchange ideas with like-minded people and learn from each other.
Additional tips
- Be aware that you are influenced by your environment. If you notice that your environment is having a negative influence on you, you should make a change.
- Do not be shy about meeting new people. You never know who you will meet and what you can learn from them.
- Be open to new experiences. Let yourself be inspired by others and learn from their mistakes.
Conclusion:
The environment plays a crucial role in your success as a founder. If you consciously choose the right environment, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

