The Power of Influence
We live in a world shaped by influence. Sometimes it’s obvious with trends and social platforms. Other times, it’s more silent such as the way someone shares their story, how they live with intention, or the values they carry in daily life.
Influence isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it can be powerful, purposeful and deeply needed. There are some people doing meaningful work, building from scratch, creating beauty in their craft and shifting culture, which deserves to be championed. But in a culture where consumption is constant and performance is rewarded, we also need discernment.
Not every voice is meant to be followed. Not every message is meant to be absorbed. Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 4:23 to:
“guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” What we take in matters. What we glorify matters. Who we allow to speak into our lives definitely matters.
Beyond what we follow, we also carry influence ourselves. Whether it’s quiet or public, we’re shaping the people and spaces around us. The question is… what do we want to be known for?
Influence Beyond the Algorithm
Throughout my life I can say that my ‘influence’ has varied by what encourages and enriches me without it being idolisation. I’m grateful for the positive influences in my life, God, family and friends. I’ve never been someone who wanted to succumb to what others are doing. I’m all for being inspired but heavy influence to falsely guide me to encourage my purchase decisions, lifestyle choices… especially if their intentions are not authentic or genuine. It’s a delicate balance, something that I would say many of us can fall into doing if there’s a lack of discernment.
Within a social media or a media outlet providing many opportunities for consumption of what trends to follow, who to engage in content or what stories ignite curiosity in you. We have to ask ourselves: What are we allowing ourselves to be shaped by and whether we’re aware of it or not? Influence can move in silence. It’s not always a bold headline or a viral social media trend. At times, it can also be a shift in our belief systems of worth and success. The more we consume without question, the more likely we are to absorb things that were never meant for us, especially if they’re negative or have an impact on who we are becoming.
More Than Inspiration
We’re influenced sometimes more than we care to believe. A basic example of this, is the language we use to express ourselves or how we choose to present our physical selves. Some of those influences come subconsciously as we scroll through our social feeds. If we look at things as more than inspiration, that’s where we can begin to review things and measure ourselves against things that don’t align. This is why discernment is so important. Not every aesthetic, voice or message is meant for you. Even if it’s by popular demand, think about before you decide to invest or indulge what’s ahead of you.
Influence isn’t something we should avoid, but we do need to filter it. We get to choose who we support, ‘follow’, what we internalise and what we also consume through various channels. As you decide what’s meant for you, make space for people, ideas or content that leaves you feeling positive, and not questioning things. It’s important to reclaim what’s meant for you.
Choosing Influence with Intention
We can all carry some form of influence, whether it’s intended or not. You don’t need to have loads of followers or an audience to shape people’s perception. If you’re aware of it, be intentional about it. In times like that ask your ‘what do I want to be known for?’ What do I want to bring into the spaces I’m in. Make your influence thoughtful and meaningful - both online and offline. And most importantly, let it reflect who you really are, not just what you think people want to see.
Pause & Reflect…
What’s one belief or habit you’ve adopted because of someone else’s influence? Looking back, do you still align with it, or has your perspective shifted?
With love,
x
