Once upon a time there were two men. Both had $100, and a full day to build a tool shed. Builder number one immediately went out and spent his money buying the finest of equipment to make the task easier. Builder number two immediately went out and got a bunch of large pizzas and cold beers. Which one finished first?

Well, before we get into that, you should know a little bit about `influence.' Hopefully at the end of this, you'll be able to tell who finished first and why.

The Law of Influence says "The true measure of leadership is influence- nothing more, nothing less."

A successful entrepreneur is a successful leader. It's just that simple. A successful business must have an affect on the world around it. Be that pulling in customers, or changing the way something is done you influence something on the outside world. Another way to say it is that it influences the world
around it in some way.

In the world of entrepreneurship, influence can be exhibited in a lot of different ways.

For example, if you run a online business you probably know all about the infamous `downline.' Many of my fellow entrepreneurs ask why I place so much effort in persuading others to join key certain programs underneath me? Why do I try to convince or
influence them?

The answer may sound awful, and blunt. However, it's honest. Influential leaders get others to do the work for them, or with them, and thus achieve more. The answer is obvious, however many choose to `do it yourself.' The truth is, however, the hour you spent adverting your product, site, or ezine, would have been better spent collecting 3 people to be apart of some advertising downline. Then you could walk away knowing that you have convinced three people to work for you.

There are a few myths to avoid when thinking about your ability to lead, that can severally hamper your potential. 

1. Leading and managing aren't the same. The company you are affiliate with will mange your downline just fine. You should focus on leading your downline. If possible, contact them with tips and encouragement, but never sales letters!

2. Just because you're a `entrepreneur' doesn't mean you're a leader. Being a `entrepreneur' involves taking risk. There is nothing risky about leading! 

3. Your IQ has nothing to do with your ability to influences. "Smart people" don't run the world, people with "People smarts" do!

4. You don't need to be Pioneer to be a leader. You don't need to have some amazing new product. It's as simple as giving a fresh spin on old idea. A pioneer is just someone who is first. You want to know that you aren't only first up the mountain, but that people are following up the mountain. Remember, the mountain was always there.

5. "It's not the position that makes the leader; it's the leader that makes the position." 

If you are truly interested in taking whatever your doing to the next level, you need help. It's just that simple. To do this, you need to motivate others to help you. To motivate you need influence. 
So, which builder finished first? The one who went straight out and bought the finest of equipment? No. He spent the whole day building the shed by himself. 
Builder number two spent his money on pizzas and beer.
Along with some friends that he paid in pepperoni, he finished his project faster and with less problems.
So learn to wave goodies under the nose of others,
and get help in reaching your goals!

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Yolanda Best is a freelance writer, journalism student,
and the editor of Culture Shocker newsletter. Culture Shocker gives free advise to creative entrepreneurs, and the latest in real entertainment news. To subscribe for free now, email
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