We live in an era of self-absorption. We do not often see examples of people investing in others around them. In order to gain influence with people and make a significant impact on their lives, you must take the focus off of yourself and begin investing in others. One way to do that is to enlarge them. You need to help them grow and become a better version of themselves. You need to water and fertilize what is already in their DNA.
Most people do not recognize their potential without others pointing it out. For some reason, we mostly downplay ourselves, but we often magnify what others can be and do. Because of this, you can gain great influence with people by identifying the potential you see in them and by helping them take steps to turn that potential into reality.
This process is mentoring. It is committing your time and energy to invest in someone that you see potential in. This may be a family member, a coworker, a friend, etc. Spend some time considering the people around you. Who do you believe has the potential to do greater things in their lives than they are currently experiencing? The people that come to your mind are prospects for your mentorship.
In Becoming a Person of Influence, John C. Maxwell and Jim Dornan share three key things you do for people when you invest in them:
- You raise their level of living
- You increase their potential for success
- You increase their capacity for growth
Each of these contribute to a better life. Each lift people up and make a significant impact in their lives. You can do this for people! You can enlarge people and become a person of influence in their lives. But you can’t do this if your focus is solely on yourself. In order to enlarge others, you must become others-centered. Mentoring cannot effectively be done by a self-centered person.
If you desire to gain greater influence in the lives of those around you, become an enlarger. Look for potential in people and invest in them to help them reach that potential. People need you to do this for them because they often don’t see their true value.
Be Intentionally Great today!
As a certified member of The John Maxwell Team, I would be honored to assist you in your personal growth and that of your team or organization. If I can be of service to you, please contact me for a free 30-minute consultation at [email protected].
