It behooves us to remember this – every single day. Until it’s embedded in our minds, it might do well to print it out and hang it in the bathroom so it’s one of the first things we see in the morning.

We have an impact no matter whether we know it or recognize it or not. I think most of the time we don’t even realize that something we’ve done has impacted someone else.

This can be a positive or a negative impact. A snide comment or look; an angry gesture; a smile; a wave. Any of these, especially when done without thought, can influence someone else’s day. Maybe you give that disapproving look and comment under your breath when someone bumps into you at the grocery store. You think nothing of it. After all, that woman deserved it for not paying attention to YOUR actions. What you don’t realize is that the woman has a 4 year old little girl in the grocery cart with her. The young girl is all eyes. She’s looking at you and her mom and has no clue what’s going on. But you can bet the little girl knows something’s up and she’s probably scared – at least a bit.

Later her mom is grumpy and short with her and she begins to think she’s done something wrong. All kids think that the world revolves around them so they interpret adults’ reactions as being caused by them. This is no different.

You’ve already forgotten the incident but the little girl hasn’t. You’ve had an impact that you’re not even aware of. Is this how you’d like others to remember you?

Think about your actions, your gestures, your words. Let’s say it’s been a less than ideal day at work. Now you’re going to the gym and you know it’s very busy at this time. Usually people at the gym do things to annoy you. Knowing this, sit in your car for a while and take some deep breaths. Make an intention that you will make a positive impact or at least remain neutral. Remind yourself that uou don’t know what’s going on in other people’s lives and that there could be many reasons they do the things that annoy you. Decide to just do your workout and be happy you’re there.

Be intentional in all your activities. Make a positive impact all day long.