Overview:
The 30/30/30/10 rule offers a practical framework for who to keep in your personal and professional circle. By balancing your relationships across mentors, peers, mentees, and close personal connections, you can foster growth, humility, and grounded success in everyday life.
At Presence News, we often talk about how the people around you can shape your mindset, motivation, and long-term trajectory. The “30/30/30/10 Rule” is a simple yet effective guide for structuring your social and professional network. It promotes consistent growth without burning out or losing touch with reality.
This isn’t dating advice or social theory — it’s practical wisdom for anyone who wants to succeed while staying grounded, connected, and authentic.
The First 30%: Those You Mentor and Inspire
Roughly 30% of the people you should keep in your circle are those who are below you — whether that means younger, earlier in their career, or simply still figuring things out.
These are the individuals who remind you of where you came from. They’re the ones still learning the ropes. By helping them, you also gain valuable perspective on what’s happening “on the ground.” Mentoring others strengthens leadership skills, deepens empathy, and keeps your own sense of purpose sharp.
When you guide someone, you’re also reminding yourself how far you’ve come — and how much you still have to give.
The Second 30%: Your Peers and Equals
The next 30% are your peers — the people who are roughly on your same level in life and career. These are your colleagues, business partners, or friends who share similar ambitions, goals, and challenges.
They understand your struggles because they’re living them too. Conversations here often lead to collaboration, friendly competition, and mutual motivation. This group forms your “professional middle ground,” keeping you both grounded and accountable.
It’s within this 30% that you’ll often find your strongest long-term relationships as you grow side by side over the years.
The Third 30%: Those Ahead of You
Another 30% of your circle should consist of people ahead of you — the top-tier professionals, mentors, business owners, or even public figures who inspire you to reach higher. These might be successful entrepreneurs, professional athletes, or industry leaders you admire.
You don’t have to know them personally to benefit from their influence. Attending conferences, seminars, or even paid speaking events can put you in proximity to these kinds of people. Their stories, insights, and discipline can provide the spark you need to level up in your own journey.
Yes, sometimes it costs money to access this circle — but think of it as an investment in your growth.
Examples of leaders in their industries for top 30%: Larry Janesky, Kim Perell, Diane Hendricks, Georgina Bloomberg, Daymond Johnson, David Meltzer, Katie Feeney
The Final 10%: Family, Friends, and Loved Ones
The remaining 10% is your inner circle — your significant other, close friends, and family.
This smaller slice is intentional. Many of these people may already fall into one of the previous 30% categories. Perhaps your partner is your peer, or your parent is a mentor. This group serves as your emotional anchor, providing balance and grounding amidst your personal and professional pursuits.
The goal isn’t to exclude them — it’s to ensure they hold a meaningful, focused place in your life.
How to Build This Network Naturally
It’s important to note: this rule doesn’t encourage approaching strangers on the street or forcing relationships. Genuine connections grow best in structured or purposeful environments such as networking events. Fitness or athlete training classes, professional conferences, and workplace gatherings are examples.
You don’t need luxury clothes or a flashy car to make meaningful connections. A simple outfit from Target can look just as sharp. If you’re driving an older vehicle, laugh it off — say you’re dodging car payments while saving for something better. Authenticity goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
The 30/30/30/10 Rule isn’t about numbers — it’s about balance. By surrounding yourself with those you can teach, those who walk beside you, and those who push you to reach higher, you create an ecosystem of personal growth and long-term success.
At Presence News, we believe success isn’t just about what you achieve — it’s about who helps you get there, and who you bring along for the ride.
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