Whether you realize it or not, you are a person of influence! You are influencing the people around you even in the most subtle ways. You are setting standards and affecting change everywhere you go! It's like when you toss a stone into a pond and it sends ripples out across the water. Your life "ripples out" and has influence on those around you.
Influence is simply the power to produce an effect without an apparent exertion. In other words, just by living your daily life, you are producing an effect. If you fail to understand your full value and just go around living without focus or purpose, that's an example that allows the people around you to rationalize living the same way. But if you go out determined to live at your best, you are raising the standard. You are being a leader and influencing others in a way that pleases God.
Remember, people are constantly watching and learning from our example—whether positive or negative—and we are responsible for how we influence those around us. That is why it's essential to hold on to the truth that you are important! Pen those words on your heart and hold them dearly to you because the way you live your life matters. When you recognize your importance and respect yourself, you are honoring God and reflecting to others the value He has placed in you.
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:1, NIV)