There are a number of theories and mental models that try to explain how humans beings are connected to each other. From the concept of 6 Degrees of Separation first put forward by Frigyes Karinthy in his short story, “Chains” to 150, which according to anthropologist Robin Dunbar, is the number of “true” relationships we can maintain at any given time.
Regardless of if you believe in the veracity of the above numbers, we all know that we are connected to other people, whether via strong or weak ties, and they exert influence on us. Whether it be peer pressure or the norms of the society you’re born into, relationships matter and they influence our everyday lives and decisions.
Unfortunately, it seems we’re more prone to think of relationships in terms of how they influence us and less in terms of how we influence them. Yes, for every person who leaves an impression on you, you likewise leave one on them. This is a social responsibility that I often see people neglect or think is the sole purview of celebrities or the prominently wealthy/powerful.
Thinking this way means that ofttimes we are so preoccupied with our internal discourse and sifting through the noise of the 21st century to find ourselves, that we don’t see how far our words and actions reverberate beyond us, into and beyond our immediate circle. Imagine if every word you say and action you take is viral but you happen not to know the reach. That’s life, especially social media enabled life.
This is why I think it’s important for people to actively consider the “energy they put out into the universe”, to use a modern turn of phrase. You don’t know how far your actions/words can go and where they will find fertile soil in someone else to grow. I also think it’s important for people to take responsibility for how they interact with others. To quote Mahatma Gandhi, “be the change you want to see in the world”, and the world starts from your sphere of influence.
What are the things you are passionate about?
What are the things you want done differently?
What are the things you think everyone should know something about?
What are the things you can do to improve the lives of those around you?
These are the areas in which you can start to be a bit more conscious and proactive about the ways in which you influence people. Whatever you do, big or small, ripples out from you to your circle of influence, even if you’re unaware of it. A little effort, a little kindness, goes a long way.
I hope this inspired you to think a little of your own influence and how you inspire those around you.
Until next time, Peace and Skipping Spheres.
consciousness = enlightenment