What is the difference between influence and impact?
We have influence when we have rules, expectations, and things that control people’s behavior.
Those can be good, and can have value to help people do what’s right, but it may not have a real lasting value.
Coaches have rules in hopes of keeping athletes from getting into trouble.
I have expectations for coaches that I think are good for their programs and will also benefit the students they are working with.
They aren’t bad, can be positive for people, but I don’t think they have any real lasting value. Just a way to do something and control a situation.
Impact is bringing a lasting affect on a person or situation.
Think about the people in your life that have had a lasting impact in what you do for a living, what you believe, how you treat people, and live your life.
Some had that impact a long time ago, while others may be in your life at this very moment.
The list can change, but we all know who those people are. Their impact supersedes influence and goes beyond enforcing a few rules. It changes who we are.
Two thoughts:
1) I shudder to think of the number of times I’ve missed an opportunity to impact a person’s life.
I have gotten too caught up in coming up with the things that influence people and have not focused enough on people and serving them. That’s how we Impact.
2) Impact is risky and can be disappointing.
When we offer ourselves up to people and invest in their lives we can also be setting ourselves up to be turned away.
I know I need to continue to look for situations where I can impact and not worry about potential failure.
If we’re being honest we sometimes size someone up and think about if they are worthy of our effort. That’s selfish and not what we should be about if we want to have a true servant’s heart and be a servant leader.
Investment and Impact equals leadership that lasts and multiplies. Take the risk with that kind of leadership and chase it.
I’m cheering for you.
#leadership #motivation #coaching
#bebetter #beblessed
Made For This Moment 