Potential Is Realized One Choice at a Time

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1. Tell us about your background and journey.

I left home at 19 without a job, money, or a high school diploma. A victim of sexual abuse and trafficking by my father, I was desperate to escape. I went on to be successful, but it took me years to learn to influence other people effectively. The journey has been amazing. I started sharing my story in 2013 and now I've written 13 books, and speak internationally. I've been on stage at Yale University school of management and the US Capitol.

2. What led you to start your page on Instagram and what is it about?

I started an Instagram page because I want to influence people on Instagram. It's about the same content I post on any social media platform - personal growth, resilience, and leadership.

3. How would you distinguish the term blogger from an influencer?

A blogger is someone who writes blogs. That doesn't mean they necessarily have someone reading their blogs, nor that their blogs help people do or think about things differently. Information alone doesn't equal transformation. An Influencer is someone with influence - either positive or negative - and can influence people to do and be more. An influencer usually inspires action in others.

4. Is it financially sustainable to be an influencer today?

I don't think it's a question of financial sustainability. If you are in the work of influencing people because you want money, you are in the wrong line of work. You don't become a person of influence because you want to make a lot of money. You do it because you want to make a difference.

5. What do you think influences consumer behavior?

I can't speak to this question with any authority, because there are far too many influences on our behavior: beliefs, values, habits, marketing, social pressure, etc.

6. What is your idea of success or your mantra in life?

My mantra is: Belief Drives Behavior. Potential is Realized One Choice at a Time.

7. How can someone become a successful social media influencer?

I'm not the best person to answer this - I believe in being who you are authentically on social media. Your tribe will follow you. Other people won't.

8. Which is your favorite book and why?

I have far too many to choose just one! Top few:

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey - classic personal growth read but transformational when applied.

The 5 Levels of Leadership by John Maxwell - best leadership book.

Leadership and Self Deception by Arbinger Institute. An incredibly insightful book about our fundamental beliefs about ourself, and our intentions and actions toward others.

Instagram ID - @ria.story