Okay, so here’s the thing: life is loud. It’s packed and buzzing and basically doing everything all at once. And in all that noise, we can start feeling weirdly separate from each other—like we’re little islands floating around with our iced coffees and unspoken stress. But the truth? Every time we interact with someone, we’re leaving a fingerprint on their day. Energy is contagious. We soak it up like sponges—We pick up on each other’s vibes—energy, mood, tone—and without even realizing it, we start to carry pieces of the people around us. Whether it’s the grump from the grocery line or the friend who texts you just to say, “Hey, you’re doing great.” Just because.

And guess what? That means you are contagious too. (In the good way.) You’re out there shaping experiences just by being in the room. Whether it’s your kid, your coworker, your patient or the stranger on the elevator—how you show up matters more than you think. When we lead with kindness, curiosity, and just a touch of grace (okay, maybe a lot of grace on the tough days), a little more patience, and maybe even a compliment thrown in just for fun. You know, like, “Hey, I see you. And your shoes are amazing.” We create space that feels safe and inspiring for everyone.

Most people never stop to think about the energy they bring into a space. But if we take just a second—just a deep breath—to ask, “How did I make that person feel?” it can change the whole game. A genuine smile can shift someone’s day. A kind word can crack open a new perspective. And the smallest gestures—a held door, a patient pause, a silly shared laugh—can be the proof someone needs that the world still holds goodness. It might be the thing that convinces someone the world isn’t as harsh as they thought this morning.

Here’s the kicker: people don’t see our deep inner worlds right away (as magical or wounded as they may be). They see how we show up. They see our face, our posture, our tone. So let it reflect who you really are. Show your warmth. Let your joy and compassion leak out a little. When we lead without ego but warmth, empathy, and humor, we leave people feeling lighter, braver, more grounded. Seen.

Speak like your words have power.

You don’t have to be perfect, most of us are human after all. Some of us are redheads. You just have to be real. Be kind. Be someone who leaves others feeling better than before they met you. You never know whose day you’re shaping, whose heart you’re softening, whose mind you’re opening. Now go out and be your whole, glorious weird little self.