Recently, I attended an event where I had the privilege of hearing Kellie Wilkie, Physiotherapist for the Australian Olympic team, share a story about one of her athletes. The story was about Kim Brennan, a rower who won gold in the single sculls at the Rio Olympics.
At the start of the Olympiad, Kim issued Kellie a challenge: her races lasted longer than the men’s because they rowed the same distance, which meant she needed to be more physically prepared than them.
So, what did she do? She trained with the men.
By surrounding herself with people who were operating at an entirely different level, Kim pushed herself beyond her limits. Her strength, endurance, and mental grit skyrocketed. And in 2016, she not only competed – she won gold.
This isn’t just about rowing. It’s about a universal truth that most people ignore: your environment either lifts you up or holds you down. Kim’s success was as much about her talent as it was about who she chose to push her.
If you want to be extraordinary, you can’t settle for being the smartest person in the room. You need to surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge, and even intimidate you a little. Why? Because success doesn’t happen in isolation. Doing it alone is a myth – usually spread by people who fear competition. True success happens when you connect with and learn from others.
I’ve written three bestselling books about networking, and let me tell you, relationships are the secret sauce behind every great achievement. But let’s keep it real – this isn’t about collecting a list of names on LinkedIn or making surface-level connections. Networking is about intention. It’s about finding the right people, the ones who elevate you, challenge you, and have your back when things get tough.
And guess what? You don’t need an army of people. Success starts with just four key players in your network.
The ButtKicker
This is the person who holds you accountable. Not always our favourite people to be around but they are the people who see the best in you, even when you can’t see it in yourself. They are the ones who will make sure you show up every day and achieve the results you want to achieve. This is a role many of my clients ask me to fill in their network, because they know I will push them to achieve more with honesty and compassion.
The Teacher
This is your mentor, the person who’s walked the path you’re on and knows the shortcuts (and the potholes to avoid). They’ve been there, done that, and can guide you with their wisdom. Their experience will save you years of trial and error.
The Pit Crew
Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Some days, you break down, and the world feels too heavy. Your pit crew is there to pick you up, help you regroup, and remind you what really matters. They’re your rock when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
The Promoter
This person is your biggest fan and your loudest voice in rooms you’re not in. They spread the word about your brilliance, open doors to new opportunities, and bring clients or partnerships your way because they believe in what you’re doing.
Who’s Missing in Your Network?
If you’re stuck in the same place year after year, chances are it’s because you don’t have the right people around you. You need the buttkickers, the teachers, the pit crew, and the promoters who will push you to be better.
Kim Brennan didn’t win Olympic gold by training with people she could already beat. She leveled up by surrounding herself with the best.
And if you want to achieve extraordinary results in your life or business, it’s time to do the same.
So, who’s your cheerleader? Your teacher? Your pit crew? Your promoter?
If you can’t name them, it’s time to start building those connections. Success is a team sport, and the right people in your corner can transform everything.
Janine X