Why People Struggle to Get Started Making Influence
Influence is a powerful force that shapes ideas, drives change, and inspires others. Whether you want to lead a team, build a personal brand, or create an impact in your community, making an influence is essential. Yet, studies show that 8 in 10 people struggle to get started. Fear, doubt, and misconceptions hold them back from stepping into their power.
If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to build influence, you’re not alone. This article uncovers the biggest obstacles people face, why they happen, and—most importantly—how to overcome them so you can confidently step into your role as an influential leader.
In this blog, we’ll explore why 8 in 10 people want to make an influence but struggle to get started and, more importantly, provide practical steps to overcome common barriers such as self-doubt, lack of clarity, and fear of failure. By taking small, intentional actions, you can move from aspiration to meaningful influence, creating positive change in your community and beyond.
The Hidden Barriers That Hold People Back
Overwhelming Choices
With countless paths available for making a difference, many individuals feel paralyzed by the options. Whether it's volunteering, advocacy, or creative endeavors, the vast array of possibilities can be daunting. This often leads to indecision, hindering individuals from taking any action.
Fear of Inadequacy
A prevalent fear is that one's efforts may be too minor to matter. In a world grappling with significant challenges like climate change, poverty, and inequality, individual contributions can seem trivial. This fear of not making a "big enough" influence can discourage people from even attempting to help.
Lack of Self-Belief
Self-doubt can be a major hurdle. Many question their capabilities or feel they lack the necessary skills to create change. This lack of confidence can stifle initiative and creativity, leaving individuals trapped in a cycle of inaction.
Resource Limitations
Time, money, and energy are limited resources. Many feel constrained by their personal circumstances, believing they cannot afford to allocate resources to helping others. This perception can significantly impede action.
How to Shift Your Mindset and Take Action
1. Recognize That Influence Start Small
If you believe you need huge resources or influence to make an influence, it’s time to shift that mindset. Some of the most powerful movements started with a simple idea or a small act of kindness.
âś… Instead of trying to solve world hunger, start by helping one person who needs a meal.
âś… Instead of creating a large foundation, mentor one young person in need of guidance.
✅ Instead of overthinking, take the first step—no matter how small.
Making an influence isn’t about size—it’s about consistency.
2. Identify Your Unique Strengths and Passions
Influence is most powerful when it aligns with what you already love doing. Ask yourself:
What skills do I naturally have?
What issues do I deeply care about?
What experiences have shaped me?
For example, if you love teaching, consider mentoring someone. If you’re a great writer, use your words to raise awareness. If you enjoy organizing events, help a local cause with logistics.
Your strengths and passions are the key to making a difference.
3. Start Where You Are
You don’t need a global platform to create change. Some of the greatest influence happens locally.
At Home: Teach kindness and empathy to your children.
In Your Community: Support local businesses, mentor youth, or volunteer.
At Work: Positively influence your colleagues, encourage inclusive conversations, or start an initiative for employee well-being.
4. Overcome the Fear of Judgment
One of the biggest fears that stop people from making an influence is worrying about what others think.
“Will people take me seriously?”
“What if I look like I don’t know what I’m doing?”
“What if no one supports me?”
The reality? People will always have opinions. But your desire to help should be stronger than the fear of judgment. Stay focused on the people you’re helping, not the critics.
Conclusion
Influencing others isn't just for a select few; anyone willing to step up and share their voice can make an impact. The biggest mistake is not starting at all. Overcome your fears and doubts, and take that first step today—the world needs your voice.
While the journey from intention to action can be challenging, recognizing obstacles and taking strategic steps can lead to meaningful change. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or creative expression, every action counts. Together, we can create a ripple of change that transforms lives and communities.
Ready to Empower Your Team and Improve Delegation?
At Ingram Educational Consulting, we specialize in helping leaders and organizations strengthen their team dynamics, improve communication, and develop strategies for more effective delegation. We can guide you if you’re ready to move from micromanagement to empowering your people.
Through tailored coaching sessions and leadership development programs, we can help you create a culture of trust, collaboration, and autonomy that drives success. Whether you want to improve team relationships, increase productivity, or develop more effective leadership strategies, our team is ready to support your goals.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how Ingram Educational Consulting can help you unlock your team’s potential.
You can take the first step toward transforming your leadership and team dynamics. Your organization will thrive, and your people will thank you.
Visit Ingram Educational Consulting for more resources on inclusive leadership and how your organization can better support working parents.
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