Influence

My professional goal for 2018 is to improve my ability to influence.

This is a tricky attribute for me, because in the past, I've misused it, misunderstood it, and then, as a result, tried to avoid it altogether. So part of the challenge of using my influence, for me, is accepting that influence can be a positive trait.

Influence is not being afraid to ask.

Influence is not saying "no" for someone else before you've even asked. 

Influence is curiosity.

Influence is winning friends, not using people.

Influence is connection.

Influence is listening more than talking.

Influence is vulnerability. 

Influence is challenging others.

Influence is story telling.

Influence is asking for help when you need it.

Influence is making other people feel good.

Influence is using your abilities and knowledge to help others.

Influence is not about ego. Influence is not a bad word. Influence is making an impact on the world.