About this quote

Be ruthless about who you allow into your circle and why you tolerate them. Stop making excuses, raise expectations, and act to replace low-value choices with people and habits that push you forward.

When to use it

• Hiring: rather than bring on a weak team member who will slow everyone down, leave the role open until a qualified person appears.
• Dating: don't settle for someone who saps your energy—wait for a partner who adds real value to your life.
• Events: if an invited group will turn a productive meeting into a waste of time, cancel or postpone until the right people can attend.
• Friendships: remove or distance from recurring company that undermines your goals instead of pretending their presence is enough.