Influence...

Question

Influence is a force for good or bad, I know that for myself. All around me, the people I know have once succumbed or are giving way to influence. People that I once knew as friends are now doing things which are negative- e.g- drugs. I just wanted to know other people's experiences about influence.

Answer 1

I find that the only way that you can truly be influenced is if you let yourself be. i've had situations where i've had friends who've started smoking, but because Ichose that I didn't want to do that Ididn't and my friends accepted that!! I think it depends entirely on the persons will power against something. but of course you've got to remember that some influences are good!

Answer 2

Interesting topic. I don't think it is possible to avoid being influenced. The question is, By what or whom do we allow ourselves to be influenced?

"El que está andando con personas sabias se hará sabio, pero al que está teniendo tratos con los estúpidos le irá mal." -Proverbios 13:20

"He that is walking with wise persons will become wise, but he that is having dealings with the stupid ones will fare badly."

Or as another common saying goes: "Dime con quien andas y te diré quien eres."

As for me, having strong personal convictions is the best way to avoid being influenced negatively.