“Enthusiasm is the greatest asset in the world. It beats money, power, and influence.” ~Henry Chester
Influence has become a huge buzz word, particularly now that social media has taken the world by storm. There are sites to measure it. Blog posts that dissect it. Books that analyze the psychology of it. Collectively, we’re obsessed with the ability to persuade other people.
It’s not just about driving consumer behavior, although clearly that’s a big part of it–everyone needs to earn a living. It’s also not all about the ego–having the most followers, the most retweets, or the most influential friends. I suspect it’s also about the desire to be seen.
With so many people sharing their thoughts, feelings, and gifts, it’s easy to feel like you’re not being heard. Like you’re not making a difference. But sometimes in our desires to be seen by others, we stop looking into ourselves.
There’s no denying that a spotlight can magnify the impact that someone can make. But if you think back to the last time someone affected you in a profound way, odds are it had nothing to do with authority or influence.
What really makes a difference is heartfelt, inspired action, backed by authentic, positive intention.
It’s not power of persuasion that moves us; it’s the power of passion.
That’s something we can all access, and it does make a difference–even if it doesn’t reach masses of people. More importantly, passion makes a difference for us. No amount of approval or validation can provide the same joy that comes from looking into and following your heart.
Today, if you feel like you’re not being seen, ask yourself: What am I passionate about, and how can I use that passion today to be the person I want to be?
Photo by florianpusch
About Lori Deschene
Lori Deschene is the founder of Tiny Buddha. She started the site after struggling with depression, bulimia, c-PTSD, and toxic shame so she could recycle her former pain into something useful and inspire others to do the same. You can find her books, including Tiny Buddha’s Gratitude Journal and Tiny Buddha’s Worry Journal, here and learn more about her eCourse, Recreate Your Life Story, if you’re ready to transform your life and become the person you want to be.
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Though I run this site, it is not mine. It's ours. It's not about me. It's about us. Your stories and your wisdom are just as meaningful as mine. 
I think influence depends on your use of it.
You have a lot of influence when you are honestly seeking to help someone, if they sense that you really care they will listen and be influenced.
If you are only in it for your own gain you can influence through power but it will never be as powerful as honest advice.
This is excellent, excellent and exactly what I needed to read- especially : “But if you think back to the last time someone affected you in a profound way, odds are it had nothing to do with authority or influence.” Thank you so very much.
It’s not power of persuasion that moves us; it’s the power of passion.~tinybuddha {YAY to passionate people power!~sb}
I think influence depends on your use of it.
You have a lot of influence when you are honestly seeking to help someone, if they sense that you really care they will listen and be influenced.
If you are only in it for your own gain you can influence through power but it will never be as powerful as honest advice.
This is excellent, excellent and exactly what I needed to read- especially : “But if you think back to the last time someone affected you in a profound way, odds are it had nothing to do with authority or influence.” Thank you so very much.
This is excellent, excellent and exactly what I needed to read- especially : “But if you think back to the last time someone affected you in a profound way, odds are it had nothing to do with authority or influence.” Thank you so very much.
beautiful..like to thank Lori Deschene for her efforts in spreading these messages…
God Bless !
Thank you Geet! I’m glad you enjoy the posts!
Thank you Geet! I’m glad you enjoy the posts!
You are most welcome. =)
You are most welcome. =)
I think you hit the nail on the head, Daniel. People can sense intention, and that makes a big difference in how we receive assistance.