Living a life worthy of followers.
In today’s online world there seems to be an overflow of people in influential positions. With all of the social media platforms available to the public, it appears that anyone who has the burning desire, charisma and strong work ethic, can be an internet star. However, the open sourcing of media, education, and entertainment appear to be that of a double edge sword of sorts.
On the upside, an influencer gets to meet and connect with people all around the world, whose unique perspective we never would have had access to in the past. The downside is that some social media influencers may not have their followers best interests at heart. Some present as if they are leading their community with a loving, caring and generous spirit, yet they seem to be gaining monetary income from product promotion and/or workshops they promote. In some cases, they are they are guiding some the most vulnerable of our society (including children) with the content they create and the products they promote. Social Media personalities are quickly evolving into some of the biggest and most powerful influencers in the world.
Along with the powerful influence that a large social media presence brings, comes the opportunity to make money. Anything that has a potential for profit also has the capacity to bring out negative traits in people. It’s important for those of us who have chosen to become online personalities to remember that we have a certain moral obligation to our followers. This especially concerns those who are established in the self-development field.
It would be prudent for any ‘leader’ or ‘influencer’ to reassess and consider the following :
1. Inspiration — What inspires you to put yourself in the public eye? Do you have a special gift that you feel an overwhelming desire to share with the world? Is what you give to the people inspired by love or by greed?
2. Motivation — What is it that motivates you to work tirelessly to get your message out there to people? Do you walk what you talk? Are you motivated to be a leader who exemplifies love, understanding and compassion or do your intentions lie elsewhere?
3. Expectation — What do you expect from the people who follow you? Do you wish to see your work help people live a more conscious and loving lifestyle or do you just seek attention and self-gratification?
“Practice self-awareness, self-evaluation, and self-improvement. If we are aware that our manners — language, behavior, and actions — are measured against our values and principles, we are able to more easily embody the philosophy, leadership is a matter of how to be, not how to do.” – Frances Hesselbein
We who have entered the public eye as social media personalities have accepted a leadership position; and as such, it is infinitely important that we evaluate ourselves, as well as our overall message and motives, on a regular basis. It is essential to ensure that our lives match our message, and we genuinely ‘‘practice what we preach’’.
When there is a large audience following, it’s inevitable that you will become a leader and role model to many. Your community will carry your message to others. So I ask you this:
What type of message are you delivering? Are you leading with love? Are you living a life worthy of followers?
Previously published on medium at https://medium.com/@helenbarry/leading-with-love