"It is better to be alone than in bad company." ~ George Washington
Influence. It's what shaped George Washington's life decisions that eventually led to his becoming President of the United States.
Washington lost his father at the age of 11, and had to cease his formal education to help support the family. His half-brother Lawrence,who was 14 years older, became his mentor.
Through the influence of Lawrence, George learned to become a skilled outdoorsman. He may have developed an early interest in leading men by hearing Lawrence's accounts of military life. The experience and skills he gained led to an opportunity to join a surveying team. The knowledge of the region that he learned as a surveyor helped George immensely years later when he trained and led troops.
Lawrence also introduced George to his extended family who took a great liking to him, and through their influence he was able to pursue a position in the militia. He took on greater responsibilities after his brother died, as he left him his estate, Mount Vernon. Before he was 20 years old, Lt. Washington was commanding a military regiment, and understanding the impact of his influence on others.
Influence is also what led to the planting of several thousand trees in Washington, D.C. that became the annual "Cherry Blossom Festival", an event that provides spectators with a gorgeous display at this time of year.
A 24 year effort on the part of one woman with an idea, a plan and the ability to influence, culminated in her correspondence with the First Lady, Helen Herron Taft, wherein Eliza Scidmore outlined her vision for 300 Japanese flowering cherry trees to beautify the Tidal Basin.
Mrs. Taft immediately loved the idea, and a few days later was able to secure the commitment of 2,000 additional trees. Today, over 3,500 cherry trees of different varieties embellish the Nation's Capitol along the Potomac.
Most people have never heard of Eliza Scidmore or Lawrence Washington. Yet they left their mark by their influence on others.
Influence is what we're under every day, at all times, and what we're always doing. It's important to be aware of influence* when we're involved in motivating others. When we act, especially when we handle challenges, we have an opportunity to be a positive influence on their lives.
* Things for leaders to consider: Who was the greatest positive influence on your life? Who is influencing your life now? Are those influences compatible or not? How is that impacting your life? What kind of influence are you on others?
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