Mirror Neurons and the Power of Your Inner Circle: 5 Reasons Why Your Closest Connections Matter

People matter. But the people you see most often have more power than you might think.

Have you ever been in the middle of a conversation and realize you’re sitting or standing with the same position as the person across from you. Have you shifted your hand placement to notice a minute later they have matched you again? That’s the power of a fascinating component of our brains called mirror neurons. These brain cells not only shape our social interactions but also play a vital role in mirroring the attitudes, behaviors, and emotions of those around us.

Let’s delve into the science of mirror neurons and discover five reasons why the five people you hang around the most matter so much.

1. Emotions are contagious

Mirror neurons are responsible for our ability to empathize with others and internalize their emotions.

When we spend time with positive, dynamic individuals, their contagious energy activates our mirror neurons, leading us to experience and mirror their positive emotions. Conversely, being around negative or pessimistic individuals can impact your own emotional state.

By surrounding ourselves with optimistic and uplifting individuals, we can create an the perfect stewpot for fostering happiness and well-being.

• If you want to be more positive, find positive people.

• If you want to be a more loving friend, take a hard look at how you’re treated.

• If you want to be happier, hand around those who exude joy.

2. Copy/ paste works with behaviors too

But wait. That’s not all.

Mirror neurons go beyond emotions to influence our actions (see note on synchronized sitting posture above). They fire both when we perform an action ourselves and when we observe someone else performing the same action. This imitation extends to behaviors, habits, and even skills. By choosing to spend time with individuals who exhibit qualities and behaviors you admire, your mirror neurons will naturally mirror and imitate those behaviors. This can lead to personal growth, increased motivation, and the development of positive habits.

• If you want to be an artist, make artist friends.

• If you want to be more active, join a running/ yoga/ walking group.

• If you want to be (fill in the blank), seek out people who also (fill in the blank).

3. Beliefs and perspectives

You’ve heard that adage about birds of a feather, yes?

The people we surround ourselves with can shape our beliefs and perspectives. Mirror neurons can, over time, lead to a subconscious assimilation of beliefs and values. If I surround yourself with individuals who have a growth mindset and believe in possibilities, my mirror neurons will mirror and reinforce those beliefs, encouraging me to think big and strive for success.

Conversely, negative or limiting beliefs can hinder personal growth. Cultivating an inner circle that embodies empowering beliefs can transform our own mindset.

• We are impacted by those in our churches.

• We are impacted by those on our work teams.

• We are impacted by those in our homes.

4. Support systems

The people we hang around the most often naturally exist in our immediate environment.

When we surround ourselves with supportive and encouraging individuals, our mirror neurons respond to their positive reinforcement (thank you, BF Skinner) and nurture an environment conducive to growth and achievement. Having a strong support system that believes in our abilities can boost our confidence, provide valuable feedback, and help us overcome challenges.

Our mirror neurons will mirror their support, enabling us to thrive and reach our full potential.

It’s true that our mirror neurons also impact others. However, we must remember that it’s impossible to pour from an empty cup. As you take a look at your support system, consider how they fill you up.

5. #Goals

Naturally, those in our immediate environment often also serve as role models and a source of inspiration.

Mirror neurons allow us to observe and internalize the qualities, achievements, and aspirations of those around us. When we surround ourselves with driven, accomplished individuals who are pursuing their passions, our mirror neurons will naturally mirror their drive and ambition.

This connection can ignite our own motivation and inspire us to pursue our goals with renewed vigor.

Cultivating our circles

Understanding the influence of mirror neurons on our social interactions and personal growth emphasizes the importance of curating our inner circle mindfully.

By consciously selecting positive, supportive, and growth-oriented individuals to be part of our closest connections, we can harness the power of mirror neurons to propel us toward success, happiness, and personal fulfillment.

Take a moment to reflect on the five people you currently spend the most time with. Consider whether they align with the qualities and values you wish to cultivate within yourself.

If necessary…

• seek out new connections,

• join communities, and

• actively build a network of individuals

…who inspire and uplift you.

Your mirror neurons are waiting to synchronize with someone. It’s up to us to decide who we want making those crucial impacts on our lives.