Do you want to make a difference in this world? Are you searching for ways to live with greater purpose and leave a positive legacy? Then consider adopting this goal: to influence others for good.
Sounds like a noble goal, doesn’t it? But how do we accomplish it?
It starts by taking inspiration from one of my favorite quotes.
“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
― Desmond Tutu
However, influencing others for good goes a step beyond practicing random acts of kindness. Becoming an influencer is a way of life that requires intention, persistence, and courage.
When we think of ourselves as influencers for good, it affects our attitudes, perspectives, and priorities. When we intentionally adopt the role of influencer (even if no one else is aware of it) we are more prone to take action and get involved in worthwhile activities.
Influence is not the same as meddling
The Cambridge Dictionary defines influence as: “the power to have an effect on people or things.”
When we influence others for good, we have the power or ability to affect their behavior. But there’s no guarantee others will listen, cooperate, or take our advice. We must be willing to continue to do our part to influence others for good, regardless of the results.
How others behave is not up to us. When we try to force others to change, we have moved from influence to meddling (or worse).
Therefore, being an influencer requires humility, grit, and the resilience to keep trying even when nothing seems to be changing. We need the determination to keep doing what’s right in the face of ridicule or discouragement, simply because it’s the right thing to do.
We do our part and trust God to work in the hearts of others.
Five ways you can influence others for good
Be a good friend. Be the kind of friend others can turn to. Someone they can trust to be compassionate, honest, and reliable. Be a good listener—one who keeps confidences, practices active listening, and helps friends process verbally without taking over the conversation. We can be the rock for someone facing hard times, a sounding board for those facing tough decisions, and a cheerleader who urges others to worthy achievements.
Be a role model. Attitudes and behaviors are “caught more than taught.” Therefore, our actions can be a powerful positive influence. Wherever we are—at work, play, or home—model godly attitudes and responsible behavior. Intentionally and consistently show others how to act professionally, control emotions appropriately, and navigate difficulties. People are watching, so be an example worth emulating.
Be a mentor or teacher. Our life experience is valuable. So are the skills we’ve acquired and the lessons we’ve learned. Everyday life is filled with opportunities to share what we know with others. We can inspire and enable others to thrive by generously sharing our knowledge and coaching them to success.
Take action toward positive change. Be the change you wish to see by being the first one to take action (not just talk about it). Be the first to speak up and stop gossip or verbal abuse. Pick up roadside trash. Get involved in an organization that helps solve problems you care about.
Serve well. Meeting the needs of others is an obvious way to do good in this world. But serving well doesn’t mean volunteering to meet every need that crosses our paths. Those who serve well exercise healthy boundaries with a focus on serving God rather than pleasing people. They serve with generosity and humility, willing to work behind the scenes or do the grunt work, if that’s what’s needed.
Ready to impact those around you?
This week, look for opportunities to mentor others, be a compassionate friend, and intentionally model the attitudes and actions you wish others would adopt. Slowly but surely your efforts will make an impact.
