Every leader needs an inner circle that supports them, builds them up, and adds value to them. It is the leader's task to develop that circle for themselves. In doing so, they must be very wise in their selection, because the inner circle will either strengthen them or weaken them.
Proverbs 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Who belongs in your inner circle?
- Creative people?
- Loyal people?
- Wise people?
- Influential people?
- People of faith?
- Teachable people?
- People of integrity?
- People who share the same vision?
- People with complementary gifts?
A leader will develop into the kind of person their companions are. If they surround themselves with ten highly athletic people, they will very likely become the eleventh. If they surround themselves with ten criminals, they will likely become the eleventh.
Proverbs 13:20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
A wise leader has understood this principle, not only for themselves but also for their team. They choose wisely who to bring in, and they choose wisely who to let go. Both belong to the tasks of building an inner circle.