People, incidents and situations have a deep impact on us, sometimes negative and sometimes positive. While certain situations and people are beyond our control, when influences offer the luxury of choice, one should tread wisely. The more I grow up, the more I realise that who you surround yourself with quietly shapes who you become. Not in big, dramatic way, but in the small, everyday habits that build your identity. You start picking up someone’s phrases, adopt their work ethic, you may mirror their reactions without even realising it. Your mindset shifts - sometimes positively, sometimes not. That’s the power of influence. It’s subtle, but strong.

 

I have learned that the people around you affect your behaviour - how you handle stress, decisions, and setbacks; your energy - whether you feel drained or inspired; your ambition - whether you aim higher or shrink yourself; your language and communication - the way you express, think and respond and your growth - because the right people challenge you, not change you. And what is interesting is that influence isn’t always intentional. Sometimes someone’s discipline motivates you. Sometimes, someone’s negativity slows you down. And sometimes, someone’s presence alone pulls you towards a better version of yourself.

 

So, I have started paying attention to one simple question: Are the people in my life influencing me in the right way? Because environment is not just where you live or work. Environment is people. Energy. Mindsets. Conversations. And when you change those, you change your direction, surround yourself with those who make growth feel natural, not forced. So be with people who speak with intention, who celebrate your progress and who remind you of your potential when you forget it yourself. And remember! Influence is real. Therefore, choosing it wisely is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.