The Power Of Your Platform

The Power of Your Platform

You must submit to [the authorities], not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. Romans 13:5

“Make sure you eat a good breakfast,” I told my son Eric repeatedly. I wanted him to get a good, healthy start to his day, and his fondness for Froot Loops wasn’t really accomplishing that. He would listen to me and try to change his breakfast habit, but it didn’t seem to last—until someone else was able to get through to him.

That someone else was his football coach at his new school. On the second day of school, he went to an introductory meeting for the football team. Eric informed me that night that we would need to leave earlier for school the next day.

“Why?” I asked.

“Coach told us that we really need to be taking care of our bodies,” he told me. “That starts with getting a good breakfast. The only thing we have here is Froot Loops, so we’ll need to go early enough that we can stop somewhere for something more nutritious.”

Apparently that’s all it took—someone in a position of influence giving Eric a good reason for changing his habit. All of a sudden, he was motivated.

Whether you’re a parent, coach, teacher, neighbor, or even just a friend, you likely have some degree of authority and influence over others in your life. The power of your platform is greater than you think. You have an opportunity to influence people for good. Teachers and coaches may have a more obvious role in motivating their students and players, but everyone can exercise influence in someone else’s life. And you need to allow yourself to be influenced positively by others. Everyone needs to be aware of their platforms and the power they hold. And you need to learn to use that power effectively.

Uncommon Key > Never underestimate the potential of your authority and influence to impact others. Look for someone who could use a motivational push today. Emphasize the positive benefits of a change.