In this post, we’ll unpack all you need to know about the power of peers, explaining the evolutionary reason, the science, how to leverage the power of peers and more.
Proximity Is Power
We become who we associate with. This applies just as much in the physical realm as it does in the digital realm.
In fact, research shows that the people whom you habitually associate with determine as much as 95% of the outcomes in your life
“People should learn to see and so avoid all danger. Just as a wise man keeps away from mad dogs, so one should not make friends with evil men.” — Buddha
The Evolutionary Perspective
From an evolutionary perspective, adapting to the behaviours of our social group increased our chance of acceptance and cooperation within that group, ultimately increasing our ability to survive and reproduce.
The Science
The reason why we become who we associate with is mirror neurons — cells in the brain that activate either when we ourselves have an experience or when we observe someone else having an experience. These cells cause us to unconsciously mimic the behaviour of others.
Obesity Is Contagious
In a ground breaking study that tracked no less than 12,000 people for thirty-two years, researchers found that an individual’s chances of becoming obese increased by an 57% if he or she had a friend who became obese, even if they were living in different part of the country.
How To leverage The Power Of Peers
The key to harnessing the power of peers is to associate with people who’s behaviours align with your goals and the life you desire.
In doing so, you become the Master of your Destiny instead of a Slave to your Fate.
Summary (TL;DR)
We become who we associate with in both the physical realm and the digital realm.
The reason why we become like those who we surround ourselves with is due to mirror neurons which cause us to unconsciously mimic the behaviour of others.
The key to harnessing the power of peers is to associate with people who align with your goals and the life you desire. In doing so, you become the Master of your Destiny instead of a Slave to your Fate.
