Pick & Choose What Influences You; Yes You Can!

One idea that often goes unrecognized is that before we can influence the world, we are first influenced by it. We build our dreams using the pieces we gather from our experiences as we evolve. Consciously or unconsciously, we absorb elements from the vibrations of our surroundings until we eventually begin to resonate with the same tone and rhythm. Our development is intertwined with the fabric of our environment.

While I found this understanding fascinating at first, it also brings a sense of sadness when I consider the chaotic world we live in and the potentially catastrophic influences it may have on us. This insight evokes a mix of hope and worry; both emotions may arise from our desire to grow along a positively influenced path. And anyone who is as observant as I am of the world can acknowledge the decline in hope and the unfortunate depravity throughout the world.

But that aside, let’s talk of the people who are living an intentional life with a goal and purpose. The reason I'm considering this above all else is because purpose and intention make you care, and when you care, you become aware of how things move around you. You build a path to follow, and although constantly fighting off undesired influences, you wish to remain on course. Having goals and dreams fosters a great sense of alertness when it comes to the surrounding influence.

The good news is that everyone can pick and choose who and what influences them. However, to do so, there are a few things to understand:

1. Your self-image is one of the most influential forces there is.

Here’s a cold, hard truth: the way you perceive yourself is one of the most powerful forces in the universe. Everything you dream of, and all your actions, should be intentional and in accordance with that self-image. No matter your background or current situation, this image should serve as the role model you aim to grow into and make a reality.

Self-confidence, which stems from our self-image, can significantly impact our lives. Our self-image serves as a powerful influence in our daily decisions. Many of our successes and abilities are closely tied to how we strive to align with this image, as are our shortcomings, failures, and poor choices.

2. What you admire and aspire to be determines what is most susceptible to influence you.

Another thing most people might not pay attention to is what and who we admire as personalities, characters, and role models, and what we aspire to become opens the door to the outside world to exert an incredible amount of influence on us by making us susceptible and mentally ready to receive whatever comes from that admiration. It also weakens our defense against it, should that influence be negative.

I assume this idea is significantly undermined when we consider the many people whose admirations contradict their stated goals and aspirations. It's no wonder there is so much deception and depression, especially as more dreams remain unrealized. This isn't due to a lack of ability to achieve them, but rather the derailment caused by external influences.

3. You can openly pick and choose what you want to influence you.

The most important point to understand is that you have the right to choose and claim who and what influences you, and you can do so unapologetically. There’s a troubling trend in society that leads many people to sacrifice their true selves in order to fit in, often at a significant cost. This desire for acceptance often stems from a need for validation, which reflects a lack of self-awareness, self-esteem, and a clear self-image. When we lose our sense of uniqueness, we tend to drift, trying to conform to whatever environment we find ourselves in. This behavior causes us to act not in line with our dreams, but rather in ways that we believe will make us acceptable to others. Unfortunately, this only worsens the situation, leading to the decline of our character and ultimately derailing our goals and dreams.

To achieve your goals, you must outgrow the limitations that hold you back. Growth often requires sacrifice, as it involves leaving behind many things, including certain people, habits, and more. These aren't just random elements that you discard; they are intentionally chosen because they are irrelevant or detrimental to your development. Fortunately, we possess the ability to recognize these obstacles. What usually prevents us from moving forward is our lack of courage to distance ourselves from them, as we fear the uncertainty that lies ahead. If there is one thing you need to find the courage to do, it is to accept the consequences of that sacrifice.

?

The unfortunate reality is that most people aren't prepared to take the necessary actions that would lead them to achieve their dreams; and with the year ending in just a week, many are reflecting on their resolutions from the beginning of the year, either wishing they had accomplished more or regretting not taking the right steps. What many individuals who haven't realized their dreams fail to do year after year is step back and recalibrate their approach.

Most of us need a little recalibration to stay on track and reach our goals. Many of the reasons we fall behind stem from either a blurred self-image, an inability to attract the right energy, or simply succumbing to the influences of our surroundings without critically assessing them. Hopefully, this article has helped you clarify your path. As you approach the new year, aim to harness better influences, as doing so is essential for your progress.

With that. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2025!