Unintentional Influence

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This story is not new to MMM readers. I initially wrote it over 14 years ago. Our granddaughter Grayson, who is featured in this story, left for college last week. While the story is not new, the lesson it delivers is always worth revisiting.

Recently the dog next door was barking incessantly, as it is prone to do.? Those of you who know me, know that I am not a dog person.? I went over to the wooden fence separating me from the dog and gave it a good kick and yelled something in an attempt to quiet the dog.? It worked momentarily.? Later in the week my wife told me that the dog was barking again and my 4-year granddaughter, Grayson, kicked the fence and yelled at the dog!? So I am no longer in the running for grandfather of the year.? I also need to remind myself about unintentional influence.

Great leaders are always aware of their influence.? An obvious step is to understand that influence comes in situations that clearly require your leadership, projects, crises, conflict etc.? Leadership is a 24/7 role at work and at home.? As I have said before, we are all leaders in some role or another, home, work, church, relationships, or in the community.? We all have influence; it is our responsibility to use it intentionally.

The story about Grayson’s actions reminded me how important my influence is at all times.? Grayson watches every single thing the adults around her are doing.? People we work with as business and civic leaders are watching us as well.? Not that I think they would kick the fence just because I did. They might do something unprofessional or disrespectful thinking it was okay if they had seen me do it.? John Maxwell speaks of the importance of intentional influence.? I think it is just as important to look at it is the inverse, unintentional influence.? I did not intend to influence Grayson when I kicked the fence.? I meant to get the dog to stop barking.? (Granted, probably a bad way to accomplish that.)? But I unintentionally influenced Grayson.? I sent her a message I did not intend to send.

?Make sure your influence is always positive, in all situations and in front of all types of followers!? Be mindful of your unintentional influence.