167: Growing In and Out of Circles: When to Let Go

Day One Dollar Zero

In this episode of Day One Dollar Zero, Will Grimes and Eli Schmidt dive into the concept of “circles” — the personal and professional relationships you grow into, grow out of, and protect. They share real-life experiences of navigating friendships and business partnerships that tested their time, energy, and resources. From understanding who should be in your inner circle to managing the "shiny object" syndrome that leads you astray, Will and Eli highlight the importance of identifying value-aligned relationships while protecting your circle from distractions and toxic behavior. They also explore personal growth, giving without expectations, and learning when to step back from relationships that no longer serve your purpose. It's a candid discussion filled with lessons about integrity, leadership, and navigating the gravitational pull of success in both business and life.

Key Takeaways:

[00:31] – Opening the Discussion on Circles
Will introduces the topic of circles: relationships you grow into, grow out of, and the protection of your inner circle.

[02:35] – The Pitfalls of Shiny Object Syndrome
Will and Eli discuss how shiny objects — whether people or opportunities — can distract from your core focus and hurt your inner circle.

[04:56] – When Behavior Speaks Louder Than Words
A personal story about a business associate's lack of professionalism during a meeting in Vegas, highlighting how conduct reveals true character.

[07:00] – The Importance of Protecting Your Inner Circle
Will explains how experiences with unprofessional behavior have taught him to protect his inner circle and limit who has access to his resources and time.

[09:30] – Caring More About Other People’s Goals Than Your Own
A reflection on how people often show more interest in their own pursuits than yours, and how to recognize when a relationship becomes one-sided.

[12:20] – Actions Speak Louder Than Offers
Eli shares insight into how actions, not words, are the true measure of someone's character. People often say they want to help, but when the time comes, their behavior tells a different story.

[17:00] – Leadership Isn’t Self-Proclaimed
Will and Eli discuss the difference between self-proclaimed leaders and true leadership, emphasizing that leadership must be earned, not declared.

[26:58] – When Opportunity Meets Preparedness
The duo reflects on their partnership with Ryan Pineda and how preparedness allowed them to seize an opportunity to expand their business.

[29:20] – Filtering Who Gets Close to You
The need for a filtration system when inviting people into your circle, recognizing when to bring someone closer and when to create distance.

[34:12] – Balancing Professional and Personal Circles
The balance of having friends outside of business who provide joy and companionship without business expectations, helping maintain emotional well-being.

[44:00] – Why Business Relationships Must Evolve
Understanding when a business relationship no longer serves its purpose and learning to let go without resentment, recognizing the relationship for what it is, not taking it personally.