You know, it’s funny. When I started my account here, I never thought that I’d put all that much effort into it. I was never really sure what I would use it for. I never really thought it could be such a powerful tool.
You see, I’ve always aspired to inspire, to create confidence in those deserving human beings who simply didn’t see the light within themselves. But there was just one problem. I didn’t see it in myself.
Time and time again, I was told that I needed to accomplish something, to achieve for myself before I could help someone else. While I look back now and agree with the principle of putting your own oxygen mask on first, it was the act of trying to inspire others that inspired the confidence within me.
While I was creating content, I was learning. Subconsciously engraining those lessons into my head, I was unknowingly teaching myself how to be successful. It may have taken what felt like forever, but eventually it taught me what I needed to know; that success is more about creating happiness along the journey rather than results or a destination.
When I heard that what I was doing had a positive impact on people, it filled me with joy. It compounded the confidence I was building because it let me know that my efforts weren’t for naught, and encouraged me to continue. Sure, there were naysayers who told me I didn’t know what I was talking about, but they drove me to get better.
Over the past few years, this platform has given me a place to share my point of view, my stories and my desire to make the world a better place. It’s something I’m extremely grateful for, the opportunity to share my voice. I may not have a very large amount of influence, but I’m glad I can use the space I do have for something positive.
Many people are referred to as influencers, and many of them hate the term. But I see it as something with great potential. I believe we all have the ability to influence, no matter who we are or where we come from.
I believe we should change the narrative around the word and embrace the positive aspects of it. I believe we should look to use our influence to teach others how to understand their feelings and emotions and inspire the confidence within them to change the world.
Simply being able to find pride in myself and what I have to offer has opened the door to so many friendships, experiences and opportunities to expand my horizons, and hopefully, through this platform and many more, I can teach others to do the same.