Confucius said: "Have no friends not equal to yourself."

By this I don't think he meant having like-minded folks who are all your equal in views or goals - that's an echo chamber - but to have people equal in respect and self-improvement; whether they happen to be equally capable of what you've accomplished, or you are equal to their accomplishments with the right effort.

Thus: have those around you to whom you aspire, so as to improve yourself.. as well as those who you might inspire, to improve others by example.

Like a rising tide lifts all ships in a free market, the free exchange of ideas and ideals will elevate us all as human beings.

Confucius said if you find a man worthy, try to emulate him, but if you deem a man unworthy, then re-examine yourself. So we are always trending upwards together, instead of looking down on anyone.