Influence isn't solely about being heard; it's about being believed. And at the crux of believability lies robust confidence. When we exude confidence, we lend weight and credibility to our words, making our messages more impactful and persuasive. It serves as an implicit endorsement, suggesting that if we are so assured in our stance, there must be merit to it. However, this confidence must be genuine, stemming from knowledge, experience, and self-belief. In a world rife with information, it's the confident voices that rise above the din, shaping narratives and leading with authenticity.

Read: Robust Confidence  (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence)

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Amidst a sea of diverse opinions and beliefs, there lies an understated strength: the ability to understand without conforming. True understanding is a silent acknowledgment of another's perspective, free from the compulsion to agree. 

This skill transcends the realm of mere tolerance, cementing genuine connections. 

By embracing this approach, we foster an environment where ideas flourish and relationships thrive despite differences. 

Such mutual respect becomes the foundation of impactful dialogues and collaborations.

In a world yearning for unity, understanding without agreement is the bridge that connects disparate islands of thought.

Read: Walking in their Shoes (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence)

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Don't be a puppet in the hands of emotional manipulators. Recognise their tactics—pushing your buttons to evoke reactions that serve their agenda. When you react emotionally, they win. 

Take back control by being mindful of their intentions. A moment's pause disrupts their grip on your emotions. 

Empower yourself to respond intentionally, thwarting their manipulation. Shield your emotional sovereignty; influence belongs to those who steer clear of emotional puppetry.

 

Read: Mastering Emotional Control (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence)

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Assumptions are the silent puppeteers in the theatre of human interactions, often dictating our responses before a word is even spoken. While they can be protective, they also blind us to the multifaceted nature of reality. 

To wield extraordinary influence, one must first unshackle from these constraints. 

Delve into conversations with an open heart, free from pre-judgements. 

By doing so, we create a space where genuine dialogue thrives, unburdened by the weight of unchecked biases.

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While vision lays the groundwork, conviction turns that vision into an inevitable future. Through my extensive work with executives, it's clear that mere belief isn't sufficient. True leaders foster an unshakeable conviction that their vision will materialise, irrespective of impending challenges. Conviction provides resilience in the face of setbacks and cultivates a mindset resistant to doubt. Once this potent belief is harnessed, only then should one ponder the 'how'. Without conviction, even the grandest of visions remains just a daydream.   Read: Reality, Expectation and Obsession (one of the Extraordinary Lessons in Influence) Read More

In the labyrinth of corporate structure, knowing your destination is half the battle to visibility. Like any seasoned traveller, understanding the lay of the land — the power dynamics, the strategic objectives, the unspoken rules — makes the journey smoother. It's not about being present everywhere but being impactful where it matters. By navigating the organisational map with clarity and intent, you not only find your way but also become a beacon for others. Read: Jumping into the Line of Fire  (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence) Read More

Read: The Power of Curiosity in Understanding Power and Politics  (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence)

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Read: They Could Be Right (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence) Read More