Intentional Influence (doesn't take hours of practice)

Then, and from a distance, I watched them interact...and it all made perfect sense.

A few days ago, I shared a story on social media.

Enough people reached out to me about that story made sense to them, we decided to share it on our blog.

Our goal is to encourage and inspire. We hope this helps.


My 11 year old wants to invite an 18 year old high school graduate to everything.


At first, I thought it was a little strange. Why does he keep asking if Cody can come to our house to play Blitz Ball, watch his little-league games, or to play video games with him?


Concerns ran through my head...

  * Does my 11 year old son have any 11 year old friends?

  * Has something happened with one of his classmates that I wasn't aware of?

  * Is this normal behavior?



Then, and from a distance, I watched them interact as Eli congratulated his 18 year old friend on a basketball game well-played.

...and what an 18 year old did for my 11 year old...it all made perfect sense.

  * He smiled

  * He slowed down to acknowledge him

  * He made eye contact

  * He chose to speak 11 year old language…not 18 year old small talk

  * He asked questions

  * He showed genuine interest

  * And he "frosted the cake" with a high-five


You have the ability to leave a lasting impression... no matter your age, gender, race, color, height, weight, shoe-size, or even the amount of time invested.


Remain Encouraged.

 - Brian


By Brian Manhart July 17, 2025
None of us are really “too busy.” More often, we’re just too unorganized, distracted, or stressed to think clearly about how we might help someone outside of our normal rhythm.
By Brian Manhart July 8, 2025
What I really appreciated was someone who simply believed in me. We all have the ability to be that kind of hero. The kind that shares our genuine belief in someone else. Let’s choose our steps this week to honor those who continually show up for others—regardless of the personal cost or benefit.
By Brian Manhart July 2, 2025
“Action without Thought is careless. Thought without Action is meaningless. But when Thought and Action align, quality of life is born.” - B. Manhart
By Brian Manhart June 26, 2025
Given the right context, young people are interested in understanding almost everything. But they rarely ask for a lesson. Why not? Because they're intimidated OR simply don’t know the lessons they’re intended to learn.
By Brian Manhart June 19, 2025
Did they catch a fish? No. But that wasn’t the goal. Making the pole was. They spent hours as inventors, creators, gathers, problem-solvers, communicators and teammates.
By Brian Manhart June 7, 2025
The win/loss record is remembered for a few days. The positive experience will remain for a lifetime.
By Brian Manhart May 29, 2025
Trust, connection, and value aren’t built through empty words or quick clicks. They’re built through authenticity—and positive intention.
By Brian Manhart May 5, 2025
He made me feel like Jimmy Chitwood in Hoosiers . He believed in me—especially when I didn’t believe in myself. In those moments, it wasn’t about my performance on the court or in the classroom.  It was about me....and the authentic value he knew I held.
By Brian Manhart April 21, 2025
Everyone is Carrying Something.
By Brian Manhart April 7, 2025
Three Simple Steps to Begin Living a Life grounded in Courageous Moments.
More Posts