Influence

Influence is the capacity to affect the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. Influence can determine the actions, behavior, opinion, etc. of others. Shopping venues use lighting and displays to influence the buying decisions of shoppers. People can be influenced by advertisers, music, movies, and other individuals. In 1984 Nike signed Michael Jordan to promote their sneaker. In 1985 Nike released the Air Jordan sneaker though the shoe wasn’t the influencing factor. It was Michael Jordan that made Nike the powerhouse it is today.

I am sure that we’ve all had and will continue to have motivating experiences that relate in some way to external influences. As we continue to navigate life’s journey let this discussion serve as guidance towards becoming more aware of subliminal influences that direct our thoughts and actions.
As a young man, I was inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his ability to articulate, his charisma, and his dedication to helping others through his positive influence. The purpose of the VMG REVIEW.COM platform is to inspire others. Influence as we all know is very real and it’s something that I would encourage parents to regularly discuss with their children. Parents should emphasize to children how to resist negative influences. One of my grand-daughters who herself is a parent with her residence has allowed defeatist individuals to deter her from reaching her full potential. The two of us over the years have oftentimes discussed the repercussions of what happens when you surround yourself with people that are not motivated to make a positive impact in their own lives. Just recently my grand-daughter admitted to me that she listened to my advice but took it personally.
However, a potential life-changing incident that negatively impacted her life happened. Only then did she “get it”. Reality spoke the ugly truth regarding her circle of friends (who were mostly negative). As a teen at one point, my attitude was the same as my grand-daughter. When my mother warned me about a group of my peers that were “trouble” I shrugged it off. I felt that my mother didn’t know what she was talking about. Then things started happening, bad things. That’s when my mother’s words hit home. As parents, we have to tell our children the uncomfortable truth about people or things that are negatively influencing them. Regarding the negative peers that my mother warned me of most never achieved the greatness within them. We all have greatness in us so let’s continue to instill in our kids a true understanding of positive influences and their benefits. In closing, may you soar on eagle wings, high above the madness of the world? When a storm is coming all other birds seek shelter. The eagle alone avoids the storm by flying above it. So, in the storms of life may your heart be like an eagle and soar above. Do not allow negative influences to take root in your mind, thoughts, or actions. We at VMG will continue to encourage, empower, inspire, and inform. Please give us a thumbs up, a like, a share, and subscribe. We need your support.

Marvin Dixon/Founder
VMGREVIEW