Not just about walking—a question of influence and inspiration.
My about 8-year-old walking partner joined me when I was almost through with my morning walk. I didn’t notice her at first until, in the corner of my eye, I saw her trying to catch up with me.
When I intentionally increased my speed, she did the same, and when I slowed down, so did she. We continued our little ‘game’ for a while until I didn’t see her feet again. So, I turned.
There she was, standing in front of her house and waiting to say goodbye to me, with the biggest and most genuine smile.
On that day, my about 8-year-old walking partner taught me that regardless of who we are, we can positively inspire someone to learn something. All she knew about me was the woman who occasionally walked past her house. I am tempted to believe that she got inspired and decided to join me for some minutes that morning.
Leadership is like that. Sometimes, influence happens without a title, a meeting, or a strategy—just by showing up consistently. (Ref: Matthew 5:16)
Here’s the real question:
Are we aware of the silent ways we inspire others? Are we modelling consistency that encourages those watching us—even when we don’t notice them? And as leaders, are we stewarding our influence with intention, knowing that someone might be taking their next step because we took ours?
Call to Action:
Take a moment today. Identify one space where your presence matters more than your position. Show up with intention—because leadership isn’t always loud; sometimes, it’s the quiet steps that inspire the biggest smiles.