The topic of being internally vs. externally influenced comes up often in my conversations with people who are increasingly interested in personal development, personal growth, and self-leadership.
Sometimes, we don’t always realise that this is what we are dealing with. Other times it may come across as a choice we may need to make to pursue something. So, what does being internally vs externally influenced mean?
As we approach the new decade of 2020, it becomes more important to connect with who we are and usher in our highest, potential selves and opportunities with ease.
The Concept of Internal vs External Influence
I first came across this internal vs external influence concept some years ago as I was reading, (or should I say listening), to one of Dr. Wayne Dyer’s books. He is an internationally renowned author and speaker in the field of self-development. He wrote more than 40 books, 21 of them are New York Times bestsellers. A favourite of mine is, “The Power of Intention.”
External Influence
Being externally influenced can be simply defined as being easily impacted by our environment, other people, family, organizations, communities, etc. Essentially, it’s everything we get conditioned to or allow ourselves to be impacted by that is external to ourselves.
Internal Influence
By now, I’m sure you’ve guessed what being internally influenced means. It is the exact opposite of the external influence scenario. An internally influenced person, simply consults his or herself first when faced with a situation before seeking an answer from the external world.
The Verdict, Internal vs External Influence
Increasingly, research and thought-leaders in the field of leadership stress the importance of self-leadership, self-mastery, authenticity and leading from the inside-out. Being more internally influenced contributes to these all-important traits we need to cultivate within ourselves and take it externally to impact the outside world and be a better self and “people-leader.”
Caution: By no means do I advocate that we don’t ask for help. Rather, we look internally to see how far we can get in solving issues by ourselves. It helps us to understand ourselves better and ask for the right kind and level of support needed for greater success.
– Maggie
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For over 15 years Maggie Sarfo has worked with ambitious corporate execs/entrepreneurs on business and personal growth.
Her clients say they eliminate blocks that prevent them from reaching their highest potential; resulting in exponential business growth, purpose identification and development.
