How to Be a Positive Influence in a Negative World

The Power of One Positive Person

Have you ever noticed how just one person’s attitude can change the atmosphere of an entire room? Whether in the workplace, church, or even at home, being a positive influence isn’t about being the loudest voice—it’s about being the most consistent and uplifting presence.

John Maxwell once said, “People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.” That’s what makes true influence so powerful. It doesn’t require a title, a platform, or a microphone. It just requires a heart that’s willing to lift others up.

A cheerful person holds an umbrella in the rain, smiling while others around them appear frustrated. — Positivity in the storm—a shift in perspective.

What It Means to Be a Positive Influence

Being a positive influence doesn’t mean ignoring problems or pretending everything is fine. It means choosing to encourage, model hope, and reflect steady integrity—especially when things are hard. It’s being the person others can count on to offer clarity, calm, and care.

Whether you’re leading a team or simply being a good coworker or friend, influence is built on your actions, your words, and your presence.

5 Simple Ways to Be a Positive Influence

Speak life. Look for small ways to encourage others every day. A kind word lasts longer than you think.
Listen first. When people feel heard, they feel valued.
Be dependable. Integrity and consistency build the kind of trust that influences others.
Celebrate others. Recognize contributions. Point out the good.
Practice resilience. Model how to bounce back with grace and humility.

A Personal Story That Encouraged Me

Having just released my first two books, I found myself wondering if anyone would get anything out of them. As a writer, there’s always a question—Will the thoughts in my head connect with someone’s heart?

Then came a moment I’ll never forget.

A young woman in our church had been praying about starting a grief ministry. She planned to send baskets to people who had lost a loved one and wanted to include a meaningful book on grief. She ordered a few from Amazon, but none of them felt right.

Her mom had read my book and shared it with her—and it turned out to be exactly what she was looking for.

Talk about encouragement. That one moment reminded me that even when we don’t see the ripple effect of our work, God is still using it. Sometimes we’re influencing people we’ve never even met.

A man in modern clothing stands calmly among a crowd, offering help, symbolizing Jesus' gentle leadership. — A guiding presence—compassion in action.

Jesus: The Ultimate Influencer

Jesus didn’t demand attention—He commanded influence. With compassion and truth, He lifted people up and gave them hope. Consider how He restored Peter after denial or how He spoke with gentleness to the woman at the well.

He didn’t always tell people what they wanted to hear—but He always spoke with love and intention. That’s the influence we’re called to model.

What Positive Influence Is

Not

It’s not toxic positivity that denies pain.
It’s not a fake smile in every meeting.
It’s not about “fixing” people.
And it’s certainly not about pretending everything’s okay.

Instead, it’s about presence. Purpose. Compassion. Consistency.

Influence Starts Small

You don’t have to change the world today. But you can change someone’s day. Start with one person. One word. One intentional act of kindness or encouragement.

That’s where influence begins.

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