06/30/25 - Wakie Wakie 4:44

Welcome to Your 444 Newsletter!

Where proximity, pressure, and powerful rooms collide.

Today’s topic?
Why most business owners never reach the next level and how your circle might be the reason you’re still stuck.

I used to think hustle was enough.

I was closing deals, staying up late, doing the work. But no matter how hard I pushed, I kept hitting a wall.

Turns out, the problem wasn’t my work ethic.

It was my network.

I break it all down in this podcast episode:
Listen here on Spotify

4 Thoughts to Reflect On

1. You cannot build big with small thinkers.
   If your circle isn’t stretching you, it’s shrinking you.

2. Hard work doesn’t equal high growth.
   Not if you're surrounded by people who settle and stay stuck.

3. The wrong circle makes comfort look like progress.
   They clap for your old wins so you don’t chase new ones.

4. Your network is either your greatest leverage or your biggest lid.
   Choose wisely.

4 Lessons I’ve Learned

1. Access matters more than advice.
   Being in the room with real operators changes the game.

2. You level up faster through peer pressure.
   The right people push you, even when you want to play small.

3. You don’t need a bigger to-do list.
   You need a circle that holds you to a higher standard.

4. Your mindset mirrors your environment.
   If you’re always the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.

4 Challenges for You This Week

1. Audit your circle.
   Who challenges you? Who drains you? Be honest.

2. Find one new room that scares you in a good way.
   Then find a way to get in.

3. Listen to the podcast.
   This episode will hit hard

4. Write down what you really want and who can help you get there.
   Your next level is on the other side of the right relationships.

If your circle isn't making you think bigger...
Then it's time to get in a better room.

Mark Evans DM