Inspired by Actions, Not Names

Have you ever met someone who unknowingly leaves an imprint on your mind, not by their name but by their actions? I find myself constantly inspired by such encounters. It’s not people who influence me; it’s their behaviours that echo in my thoughts long after.

Take assertiveness, for example. The ability to stand firm yet remain polite feels like watching someone master the art of tightrope walking. “Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes,” said Maggie Kuhn. And when I see someone do it, I wonder if I should frame that quote next to my mirror for daily motivation.

Kindness, too, is irresistible. There’s something magnetic about a person who lends a hand without waiting for applause. It’s like watching a magician perform a trick, except the magic is real. Small acts remind me of the saying, “Kindness is a language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see.”

Then there’s confidence—oh, the kind that walks into the room before its owner! But real confidence isn’t loud; it’s the quiet assurance that says, “I’ve got this.” Think out-of-the-box thinkers add spice to life too. They remind me of Einstein’s words: “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

Honesty is a classic charmer. A straightforward remark can sometimes feel like a sharp slap but leave you reflecting long after. And who can forget the rare but delightful skill of putting thoughts in the right words at the right time? That’s a mic-drop moment waiting to happen.

Here’s a thought to ponder: What if the best version of you is a beautiful mosaic crafted from the goodness you see in others? Keep looking, keep learning, and let those behaviours inspire the masterpiece within you. After all, influence is everywhere—you just need the right lens to see it.