You Have an Impact on Others: Why Showing Up Authentically Matters

At our retreats, one of the core messages we return to again and again is this:

You matter. Your presence matters. And the way you show up has an impact.

Every single day, you are influencing the energy in the room—whether it’s with your honesty, your encouragement, your questions, or your silence. Whether you realize it or not, your voice and your perspective might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.

That’s why we invite every guest to come as their full, authentic self—even if that self looks a little different every day.

Why Your Presence Makes a Difference

Being authentic means showing up as you are. That includes your:

Energy levels
Mood and mindset
Thoughts and questions
Lived experience
Unique way of seeing the world

You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You simply need to be real.

That authenticity is where connection is built. It’s where learning happens. And it’s often the most powerful thing you can offer to others.

We All Influence Each Other—Even in Small Ways

Think back for a moment:
Has someone ever said something that stuck with you?
Maybe it was just one sentence that changed how you saw yourself.
Or a question that made you pause and reflect.
Maybe it was someone’s energy, their story, or the way they supported others that made a lasting impression.

Words, energy, and actions ripple outward.

You never know who is watching, listening, or quietly being inspired by you—just by you being yourself.

Your Story, Your Strengths, Your Voice: They Matter

It’s easy to downplay our own impact. We might think:

“I don’t have anything valuable to add.”
“I’m still figuring it out.”
“No one is paying attention to what I say.”

But the truth is:
You never know when your words, perspective, or energy will be exactly what someone else needs.

Your story, your resilience, your questions, your wins (and even your struggles) can light the way for someone else on their own journey.

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How to Show Up Authentically and Make a Positive Impact

If you want to lean into this truth—that you do have an impact—here are some intentional ways to do that:

1. Be Willing to Be Seen

Let people see the real you—without the mask.
That means being honest about where you're at on any given day. Some days you might be energized, motivated, and ready to lead. Other days you might feel quiet, reflective, or low. Both versions are equally valid—and both can serve others in meaningful ways.

2. Use Your Voice

Don’t be afraid to speak up—whether that means asking a question, sharing an insight, or offering encouragement.
Even the smallest contribution can spark a breakthrough for someone else.

3. Share Your Story

Your experiences, challenges, and lessons have shaped who you are today. Sharing them not only deepens your own self-awareness but also creates connection.
Someone out there is navigating something you’ve already walked through. You can be the voice that reminds them they’re not alone.

4. Support Others Openly

You don’t have to be a coach or mentor to make a difference. Sometimes your greatest impact comes from simply:

Listening without judgment
Encouraging someone on a tough day
Celebrating someone’s small win
Offering a resource or tip that helped you

5. Take Up Space with Intention

We often shrink ourselves out of fear of being "too much"—but the truth is, when you take up space from a place of authenticity, it invites others to do the same.
You give people permission to be bold, honest, curious, and brave.

Reflection Prompts: Tap into Your Strengths + Influence

Set aside a few quiet minutes and reflect on the following questions:

What are your top 3 strengths?
What qualities do you love most about yourself?
Who has had the greatest impact on your life, and why?
What qualities do you admire most in others?
Are there any strengths or values you want to reinforce or reconnect with in yourself?
What stories or experiences have shaped your values and the way you support others?

Take time to write them down. Keep them where you can revisit them. They’re part of your leadership, your voice, and your growth.