Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world. – Joel A. Barker
We can’t force others to change their behavior. We also can’t make the world be as we want it to be. But the things we do, the way we act, and what we choose and don’t choose can make a huge difference in the lives of others and even inspire them to change their behavior. Let’s take a look at how you can impact those around you.
Make their day better
One of the easiest ways to change your behavior is to strive to make the lives of people around you better. You don’t have to try to change the world, just aim for small acts of kindness that can help those around you feel happier.
Help another person. Cheer someone up. Act in a way that makes everyone’s day a little more pleasant. While some people might still be surly, you are likely to see a positive response from the people in your life and spread the positivity around. Don’t be afraid to be kind.
Inspire by example
Do you wish others would invite you more to outings? Organize more outings! Would you like for those around you to help those in need? Start with yourself. When you begin to practice by example, you get closer to the goals that are meaningful to you but you also have a greater chance of inspiring others to do the same.
We can’t expect others to do what we want them to do. But if we start to act more like we hope others will, it can lead to greater satisfaction. We will no longer be dependent on those around us to get a life more like the one we want. And it is possible that at least some of the people around us will respond in kind.
Apply the golden rule
The golden rule is a part of many religions and ideologies. Distilled, it means that you should treat others as you want to be treated. If you want others to be nicer, you might also attempt to be nice yourself and see how that works out for you.
Being more aligned with your expectations is sure to bring your values into the spotlight and also help you feel more satisfied with your decisions. When we practice coherence between our values, our actions, and the way we treat others, as per the golden rule, life can feel a lot better.
Be authentic
When you act to change the world, it’s important that you are consistent with your own goals and ideals. You can’t influence others if you don’t believe in your cause. You might find that pursuing things that are meaningful for you can also impact those around you.
Authenticity is reflected in being honest with what you say and what you do. Allow yourself to express your truth openly and earnestly, be enthusiastic when you feel enthusiastic. Show your passion and let others feel it. When you are earnest and authentic, others can respond in kind.
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Talk honestly about what you want and expect
The only real way we have of influencing other people directly is by talking to them. If you would really like someone to throw you a surprise party, let them know that this would please you. Sure, it might not feel as much as a surprise, but it will help the event itself occur at some point. Do you never want a surprise party? Make sure to talk about it as well.
Communicating your expectations goes a long way to making sure they are fulfilled. Otherwise, you are likely to find yourself in a long cycle of frustration. When you are honest and open about what you hope to see in others and the change, you are always increasing the chances that said change will happen.
Sure, it’s often not as simple as telling someone to change or to do something in a particular way. You might need to think about how to motivate the person. It’s also not something you can always do with strangers. However, you might find that often a direct request, suggestion, or expectation can be a good way to influence the world.
