Why How We Make People Feel Matters

1. Emotions Create Lasting Impressions
   Our brains are wired to prioritize emotional experiences over neutral or purely factual ones. Psychologists refer to this as the “emotional memory advantage.” When someone feels a strong emotion—whether it’s happiness, inspiration, or comfort—their brain encodes that memory more deeply.
   This is why we may forget the exact details of a conversation but remember the warmth of someone’s smile or the kindness in their tone. These feelings linger long after the facts fade away.
2. It Builds Connection
   Making people feel valued fosters a sense of connection. Humans are inherently social beings, and our greatest need is to feel understood and appreciated. When we make someone feel seen or heard, we create a bond that deepens trust and mutual respect.
   These connections don’t just enrich our personal lives—they also open doors in professional settings, build networks, and strengthen communities.
3. It Inspires Action
   People are more likely to be inspired by how they feel in someone’s presence than by what they’re told. Consider the influence of great leaders, teachers, or mentors. Their ability to uplift and motivate stems from the feelings they ignite in others, not just the information they share.
   An inspiring feeling can propel someone to pursue their dreams, overcome challenges, or even pay the kindness forward.

How to Leave a Lasting Emotional Impact

1. Practice Empathy
   Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. When we approach conversations and interactions with empathy, we make others feel heard and valued. This creates a sense of belonging and trust.
2. Be Present
   In today’s distracted world, giving someone your full attention is a rare gift. Put away the phone, make eye contact, and actively listen. Being present shows that you care and that the other person matters.
3. Show Kindness
   Small acts of kindness can leave a big impact. A kind word, a helping hand, or a simple compliment can brighten someone’s day and make them feel appreciated.
4. Celebrate Others
   Recognize and celebrate the achievements, strengths, and unique qualities of others. This not only boosts their self-esteem but also reinforces positive feelings about your relationship.
5. Be Authentic
   Authenticity builds trust. People can sense when interactions are genuine, and this sincerity leaves a far greater impression than rehearsed words or actions.

The Lasting Impact of Emotional Impressions

1. Creating Everlasting Memories
   The feelings we inspire in others become part of their story. These emotional memories shape how they perceive themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.
   For example, a teacher who made a student feel capable and confident may be remembered fondly for a lifetime, even if the student forgets the specifics of the lessons taught.
2. Ripples of Positivity
   When we make people feel good, they’re more likely to carry that positivity forward. This creates a ripple effect, where one kind action or uplifting moment inspires others to do the same.
3. Legacy of Impact
   Long after we’re gone, the way we made people feel will continue to influence their lives. This is the legacy we leave behind—not the knowledge we amassed, but the emotions we evoked.

Conclusion

It’s not what we know, but how we make people feel that creates a meaningful and lasting impact. Emotions connect us, inspire us, and define the memories we hold dear. While knowledge fades and facts become outdated, the way we make someone feel becomes an enduring part of their life story.

In Choices: A Journey to Uncharted Purpose, I reflect on how our decisions shape the lives of those around us. Choosing to lead with empathy, kindness, and authenticity is one of the most profound choices we can make. It’s a choice to leave a legacy of compassion, inspiration, and positivity.

As you go about your day, ask yourself: How are you making others feel? Are you uplifting and encouraging, or are you unintentionally dismissing or discouraging? Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to leave a lasting emotional imprint.

Let’s commit to making others feel valued, heard, and inspired. Together, we can create a world where emotions are the true currency of connection and impact. What will you do today to make someone feel seen and appreciated? Let’s share and inspire each other in the comments below!