“A person is the average of the five people they spend the most time with.”

Jim Rohn’s line captures the biggest curse and the biggest blessing of modern life. A curse, because so many of us, out of obligation, out of “what will people think,” or out of fear of being alone, pull our average down by staying with people who shrink our spirit.

The Stoics say: “Stay away from those who steal your time and add nothing to your life.” Mental hygiene matters at least as much as physical hygiene. If the people around you keep producing gossip, envy, and empty noise, your mind turns into a landfill.

High-Quality Solitude Sometimes you cannot find those five people. Then, instead of being with five empty companions, staying alone with your books, your thoughts, and your own self lifts your “average” much higher. As Cemil Meriç said, books are the most faithful friends.

If you want to step forward toward success, first drop the weights on your back. Cut the invisible ropes that pull you down.

You are the director of your life; do not let the extras steal the lead role. Keep your average high, your conscience at ease.