The people who you should keep around are the ones who are your cheerleaders even if they don't always agree with the team you're on.
BUT...there is a difference between having people in your circle that are "yes men" and people that support what you do. So errrr---ummm--- let's break down the difference.
If you have a true friend, they will be a voice of reason when you are too far in your emotions to think rationally about a situation. They don't tell you what you want to hear for the sake of keeping you satisfied. They side with truth and their beliefs according to what is best for you. Now, some people don't have a clue what's really best for you, but that's when they keep it real with you and acknowledge that. The "know-it-all" folks can be just as bad as the ones with agendas. Many times they are one and the same.
Speaking of agendas...a friend who is supportive will not put their own wants before giving you advice that is best for you. We all know people who operate like that where the solution they give you magically becomes something they will be happy with too. I don't care how long you've known the person or if they are a family member...it doesn't matter. If someone constantly gives you advice that resembles what they want you to do rather than what you should be doing, you need to call them out on it.
I know I have had to check myself when it came to the way I would deal with another person. I have been a "yes man" sometimes. Mainly because of wanting to be supportive and someone that others felt like they could really talk to. But I know I would want my circle to be real with me, so if I can't do the same...I deserve a crowd of "yes men" around me.
I emphasize the point of this because there are many miserable-minded people in the world who may care for you but they operate by trying to manipulate situations and people close to them. There are also people in the world who could give a damn about your issues so it's easy to give you a half-hearted response when you're looking for advice or a voice of reason.
More than all that though...what you surround yourself with will start to become the tone of your mindset. I promise you - as many people that believe they know right from wrong...if you stick around enough pessimistic people, enough hypocrites, liars, thieves, or any of the like...YOU GROW LESS SENSITIVE TO THAT BEHAVIOR. And yes...you will probably begin to mirror it.
Cheerleaders give you a mental boost and encourage you to stay on your toes where you are constantly evolving. They are not threatened by your moves. If anything your moves inspire them to get moving as well. We all need them because without them we can find ourselves depressed or without motivation.
Alright, I think I've made my point...I'll shut up for now.
