In today’s culture, the phrase “influencer” is thrown around quite frequently. It usually describes an individual who has an outsized impact on the lives of others. These people are often quantified through the size of their followings on social media or the depth of engagement we see when they share a new piece of content.
In thinking through growth strategies for our latest products, services and companies, many employ an “influencer strategy” that focuses on getting select people with significant social clout to carry an intended message to the masses. And yet anyone who knows marketing well, understands that it’s far more important to impact a few people deeply than to superficially affect a large group.
So in light of this, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about where our greatest influencers are congregated. Are they in New York City or San Francisco? Los Angeles or Chicago or Atlanta? In fact, I started to ask others who has had the greatest impact on their life, and where that person resides.
Can you guess in which state has the highest concentration of true influencers?
The answer is Florida.
Surprising? Yes. But let me explain. When we truly probe into our core, the people who have influenced us most are our grandparents. They are the most important shapers of our past and present, and those who we owe our future to most. Every time I see an older person chronicled on my friend Brandon Stanton’s brilliant photoblog, Humans of New York, I’m reminded of how deeply influential a fully lived life can be on the next generation.
Credit: Humans of New York
So to the grandmothers and grandfathers slowly walking in the Floridian sun, or in whichever state you currently reside, thank you for being our greatest influencers. The actions you have undertaken speak far louder than any 140 character statement ever could.
Your messages have reached far beyond our handheld devices, and are deeply cherished by all those whose hands you once held.
Mirage
Hi Adam, I just wanted to firstly thank you for everything you do to help people all around the world. Your book has inspired me to travel to get out of my own comfort zone & to find my purpose. What’s really wild is that I read your book last month in July which was exactly one month before my own 25th birthday (August 16th) So next month I will be traveling to Thailand by myself! My first time leaving the states and I am very excited!
Before reading your book I have always had this feeling deep inside of me that I was meant to do something more, create something that makes a huge positive impact. I know what I will name this organization, it will be Elated Earth or Elation on Earth. The basis will be where people can help one another achieve true happiness which I believe is most important!
I still don’t know exactly how or what I am going to do but im certain I will get it done and certain it will impact the lives of millions in a very positive manner! Anyways I just wanted to thank you once again for inspiring me and to let you know your truly truly appreciated! A response would be wonderful as well!
THANK YOU ADAM, Mirage
Becky R
Having just finished the chapter in PoP where you reveal to whom you dedicated your first school, my eyes brimming with tears, I found this, your most recent blog post, and am left only hoping that someday I will be able to live up to my grandparents’ legacies as well as you have.
Thanks for giving such eloquent credit to those great influencers who came before us.
Brian
Adam needs to stop making books to Talk alot, and start walking alot. I hope he creates impacts as he speaks abotu and actually follows through with his education and jsut doesn’t fold like every other UN nomination! To Big to fail? Social Enterpris? thanks
Gwy
En effet! They were our true heroes.
Ninad
Wow, I think you will be a great OB. It seems like you have a real love for children, fialmies, and people in general. Sad to say that those qualities are rare traits in todays world. I believe not just anyone should be in just any job because you could be in a job that you hate and end up making everyone who comes in contact with you at work miserable. You have the joy and care to be great at your job and effect those you will be working around not only by your knowledge , but by your love for what you do.
achetermedicenligne.com
Regards for sharing your terrific web page!