Early in my career, I heard a statement that shifted my entire trajectory: *“Five years from now, you’ll become like the people you associate with and the books you read.”* That truth challenged me to be more intentional with my influences and my inner circle. It also made me realize how critical it is to surround yourself with those who stretch you, not just settle with you.
Which is why today, I’m
incredibly grateful and humbled to announce that this Thursday, the 31st, will be the ribbon cutting for Rita Felton Coaching & Consulting. This is not just a business—it is my ministry, a divine assignment to impact lives for God’s glory. And I know without a doubt that the circle I’ve chosen has helped position me for this moment.
You have to ask yourself: Are you surrounded by people who celebrate the comfortable version of you—or the
called version of you? Trust me, it makes a difference.
Rehoboam, son of the wise King Solomon, was faced with a crucial leadership decision. He had access to his father’s seasoned counselors—men who had weathered the trials and triumphs of leadership. They gave him sound, tested advice. But Rehoboam didn’t like what he heard.
Instead, he turned to the young men he had grown up with—his peers, his comfort zone. They thought like him, spoke like him,
and reinforced what he already believed. He rejected wisdom and chose familiarity. The result? A divided kingdom and a missed opportunity.
Don’t miss your opportunity.
God has placed voices of wisdom around you—those with experience, insight, and God-honoring counsel. The question is: Will you listen?
According to Maxwell (2003), those who demonstrate the qualities of a solid inner circle possess the following
characteristics:
- Experience – People who have walked the road of life and gained insight from it.
- Heart for God – Those who put God first and live by His values.
- Objectivity – Individuals who evaluate both the pros and cons with wisdom.
- Love for People – Friends who genuinely love and prioritize people over possessions or power.
- Complementary Gifts – Voices that offer
diverse strengths to balance your own.
- Loyalty to the Leader – Those who support and care deeply for your well-being, not just your position.
Here’s a tip: God will give you the signs of who’s supposed to be in that circle—we just have to trust Him and listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Don’t ignore the nudge. Discernment is a divine gift.
