You talk, and write, and behave around others. But, how do you measure impact? How do you know that all your activity matters in the lives of others?
Time for Reflection
Around the holidays, and particularly at year end, we spend time in reflection.
Moreover, that reflection is often a look back at our activities. Those activities may or may not impact others.
Specifically, how do you measure impact? How can we know that who we are, what we say, and what we do, is having any influence on those around us?
Two Dimensions of Impact
I suggest there are two dimensions of, thus ways to measure, our impact.
In short, what matters is NOT how many interactions (i.e., the breadth of our contacts), but the impact of those interactions (i.e., the depth of our relationships).
Therefore,
1). Breadth: Having lots of friends, on-line contacts, followers – whatever term is used by the social media where we hang out. That’s easy to measure because it’s a simple count of “how many.”
2). Depth: Here, measures include how long-lasting the relationships are. Or, how meaningful are the conversations we have with that other person. And, most critically, how we’re changed by having that other person in our life.
I believe that depth is the most meaningful measure of the impact we’re having in the lives of others. In fact, it’s essential for us to recognize this precept if we’re to influence others.
Gathering and Sharing Deep Insight
Deep advice isn’t off-handed. Instead, that deep-water insight that impacts others requires a relationship of trust.
Thus, drawing out, or giving, this deep-water advice comes from my life experiences.
Actually, Proverbs 20.5, paraphrased below, says impactful advice isn’t from a surface response. Why? Because “counsel … is like deep water …”
Apply This Today!
So, how do you measure impact? Well, reflect on the quality of relationships in your life!
Ask yourself: Do I want to have a shallow influence in the lives of many or deep influence in the lives of a few? In part, the answer reflects your values.
But, how do I get to that point of depth? Most simply, the more I grow, the deeper the life experiences I have to share with others.
Live with purpose, on purpose! That is, know your WHY and intentionally pursue it.