One of the greatest challenges I faced in becoming an executive leader was learning how to influence others in difficult circumstances, especially when goals, vision, and mission do not fully align. Early in my leadership journey, I believed that a strong voice, confidence, and assertiveness were the keys to being effective. While those skills helped me stand out, they did not always help me move others. I learned that influence is not about force; it is about connection. It involves listening deeply, showing humility, and earning trust, especially in spaces where voices like mine have not always been heard.

Over time, I began to understand that influence is about guiding rather than directing. It is about blending truth with understanding and conviction with a willingness to listen. This understanding aligns closely with the call in Micah 6:8, which encourages us to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” Influence grounded in justice promotes fairness; when guided by mercy, it builds understanding; and when anchored in humility, it empowers others to lead as well.

As we enter November and celebrate gratitude, it is vital to do so in a way that honors Indigenous culture. Let us reflect on Indigenous teachings that remind us, “in a circle, we are all equal, no one above you and no one below you.” This principle highlights that influence should never be hierarchical. The circle represents balance and shared responsibility. Yet, in our communities, this “circle” has been broken. Systemic inequities, medical experiments on marginalized populations, the long shadow of redlining, and the trauma of Indigenous genocide have fractured that balance. Historic decisions were made without empathy for those most affected, and their consequences impact generations through health disparities, trauma, and social determinants of health.

Without empathy, leadership takes from people instead of giving back to them. Systemic decisions about policy, funding, or health access can unintentionally—or even intentionally—perpetuate harm when leaders do not pause to consider who is missing from the table. This imbalance affects not only marginalized groups but also weakens the entire community. The circle remains incomplete until every person can thrive, heal, and contribute.

 I now see influence as a means to serve others and create space for voices that often go unheard. As a leader, it is my responsibility to bring others along, create opportunities, mentor, and ensure that my rise creates room for others to thrive and grow. True influence is not about how loudly we speak, but about how faithfully we use our position to amplify the voices of the marginalized and those who have been silenced.

Mican’s wisdom calls us to a higher standard: to influence through justice that uplifts, mercy that restores, and humility that invites collaboration. To walk humbly means to remember that leadership is never solely ours; it is a shared journey within a much larger circle of grace.

A Call to Action

 Let us commit to closing the gaps that keep the circle of equity and humanity broken. We should use our influence not only to make decisions but also to heal divisions. Whether in boardrooms, classrooms, or community spaces, we are called to lead with empathy, speak truth with humility, and create circles where every voice is valued. In doing so, we do not just lead; we empower. And through our efforts, the fractured circle can become unbroken.