I’ve been taking stock lately about the unsung difference makers and influencers in my life. For all of us, I suspect, there are people with whom we surround ourselves who really matter – they make us better with their actions, perspectives, encouragements, kindnesses. In many cases, they don’t even know how much they matter to us. Do you have names of people who come immediately to mind when you think of difference makers and influencers in your life? Do they know?
Here’s what I plan to do:
- Tell them. Recently, I ran into Sandra. She’s a difference maker – not just in my life, but in the lives of many people in the community. I was so happy to see her and couldn’t stop myself from bounding over to her to say, “I don’t know why I haven’t said this to you before, but you have made a real difference in my life. I want you to know how much I appreciate you.” Her eyes welled with tears, and she struggled to eek out a little, “thank you.” I was only sorry I hadn’t told her sooner. She needs to know how important she is to people. I want to tell others who matter to me the same thing – maybe I can make a small, meaningful difference in their lives, too. With that in mind…
- Be a difference maker. What is your expertise, knowledge base, superpower? Might it be of use to someone else? Share it. Be generous. Help another professional to get a leg up. Though they may not expressly tell you, you will know that you had an impact.
- Look for difference makers. In your community, who are the change agents? Who are the people expanding the pie? They don’t have to be charismatic or loud, they just have to be doing good for those around them. Get to know them. Seek to be part of their orbit. You will learn from them, you will benefit from them, you may seek to emulate them. They are the ones making a difference, they are the ones influencing the community and creating abundance.
Take note of the difference makers and influencers with whom you come into contact. They are making us all better.
Happy Networking!