Barre with Justine

Is anyone else tired of hearing the term “influencer”?

Added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2022, we generally use this word to describe popular social media personalities who promote products, ideas, or methods, and are often compensated for their efforts either through the algorithm or money.

Now, an influencer I am NOT, but I do enjoy sharing some of the things I love on Instagram and Facebook. As a librarian, I would never be a good influencer because I love to add references and bring nuance into the discussion. I won’t commit to saying that certain workout is going to be perfect for you, because so many different factors come into play.

Since the recent sadness I’ve felt at losing my father-in-law, I’ve been thinking about the difference between an influencer and the kind of quiet influence we receive from those we love and admire. I’ve thought carefully on what I learned from the way my father-in-law lived his life and how he raised my husband, and how that lived example of faith and kindness means so much more than anything I could see or share on social media.

As a parent, it may take time but you eventually realize that your children learn far more from how you live your life than what you say. They are always watching how we react to things and the habits we have. In part, that’s why I’ve always encouraged women to take time for their own movement practice because it will show children how to care for their body, mind and spirit.

I see, in my husband, so many of the qualities that my father-in-law held. I recall the speech he gave at our wedding when he described how my husband, as a little boy playing soccer and speeding towards a goal saw another little boy trip and stopped to help him up. I know the kindness and selflessness that my husband has is, in part, due to his Dad’s influence.

This post is an invitation to take some time to think of the quiet influences that have touched your life. A teacher who inspired you to pursue your love of writing. A mom who always sees the best in everyone. A child who brings you her calming jar when you are upset. These are some examples from my own life, but I hope you can reflect on your own.

At the end of the day, influencers may capture your attention (and get you to buy the latest skin care product!) but their impact is fleeting and never quite reaches into your heart in the same way those you love will. It’s the quiet influencers who deserve our attention more than ever these days. ♡