Think about a person who’s had a tremendous impact on your life. It may be your Mom or Dad who believed in you, the coach who inspired you, the teacher who guided you in the right direction, the boss who gave you your first big opportunity, or the friend who’s always been by your side. I’m sure when you think of that person, it brings a huge smile to your face — as it should.
You may say that some of these folks were just doing their job. True. But even though you’ve had several good teachers, coaches, and bosses over the years, I’m sure a few of them really stand out from the crowd. You remember their passion, dedication, kindness, and, of course, their generosity. After all, they changed your life!
That obviously begs the question…are you leaving a lasting impact on others? It only takes one person to change a life — and it may as well be you.
Make a Difference
Whether you’re aware of it or not, you’re touching the lives of people every day. What can you do to step up your game?
Be an exemplary role model. Lead by example. Demonstrate that character is the DNA of success and happiness.
Be an awesome parent. Having kids is not the same as being a parent. Raise your kids to be kind, productive, and self-reliant; to make good choices and to be personally responsible for their actions; to pursue their purpose with gusto and to live their life with honor and dignity.
Be a humble leader. Share your success. As you climb the ladder of success, reach down and pull others up with you.
Be a dedicated mentor. Take someone under your wing and show them the ropes. Give the kind of advice that they won’t hear anywhere else.
Be a compassionate boss. Show your employees that work isn’t all business. Build trusting relationships. Make yourself available and supportive in times of need.
Be a shrewd businessperson. Develop win-win rather than winner-take-all relationships. Prove that there’s more to go around when you grow a large pie, together, than when you squabble to divide a smaller one.
Be a real friend. Demonstrate loyalty when someone’s chips are down and no one else has their back.
Be an inspiration. Set high expectations and push people beyond their capabilities. Show confidence in them when they’re having a weak moment.
Be perceptive. Give someone the big break they need in life. See someone’s potential even when others are blind to their promise.
Be tough, but fair. Make people accountable for their actions. They’ll thank you one day.
Be available. Give the gift of time. Lend a shoulder to cry on when someone needs a friendly ear or support during tough times.
Be the better person. Be the first to give, the first to forgive, the first to compromise, and the first to say, “I’m sorry.”
Be even-handed. Stand up for injustice, speak up for the less fortunate, and don’t give up on fairness and tolerance.
Be a loving spouse. Put your heart into your marriage. Share your hopes and your fears, your laughter and your tears, your joy and your sorrow.
Change a Life Forever
Think of your greatest accomplishments. Where would changing someone’s life rank on your list? Consider: If they hadn’t crossed paths with you, they wouldn’t be the person they are, they wouldn’t have the opportunities they have, and they wouldn’t be positioned to achieve their hopes and dreams. Bravo! You made a difference! As an added bonus, change someone’s life and you may end up changing yours.
Why complain about the ills of the world when you could be a world of difference to someone you know? You may not be able to change the world, but you can change the world around you. Change a life and create a ripple that cascades forever.