Our society places so much emphasis on appearances, material possessions, and status. So, it is easy to get caught up in the superficial. Social media often showcases curated snapshots of lives that seem glamorous. Success is defined by title and monetary gain. People flash their wealth. They flaunt their connections while boasting about achievements, hoping to earn admiration. Yet for me, none of that matters. The only way to impress me is by being a good person.

I do not care what you have, what you wear, where you live, or what you drive. Material possessions, while nice, are fleeting. A big house cannot shelter a cold heart. Designer clothes cannot mask poor character. A luxury car does not tell me who you are. What truly leaves an impression is your heart, specifically your authenticity, your intentions, and your ability to uplift others.

A pure heart is one that seeks to give rather than take. It is reflected in the way you treat people who can do nothing for you. It is also the way you show up for others and extend kindness, even when it is inconvenient. Someone with a pure heart is not perfect. They are human like the rest of us. However, their motivations come from a place of love, respect, and sincerity.

I deeply respect those who:

• Treat service staff with the same respect as a CEO.
• Apologize when they are wrong, even when it is difficult.
• Offer help without expecting anything in return.
• Stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular.

These are the people who inspire me, not because of what they have but because of who they are.

Good intentions speak louder than actions. Intentions matter just as much, if not more, than actions. A generous act loses its value if it is done solely for applause or recognition. What is impressive is doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do, even if no one is watching.

People with good intentions:

• Advocate for others behind the scenes.
• Correct others with love instead of judgment.
• Speak life into others when they’re struggling.
• Work quietly but impactfully, never seeking the spotlight.

Their goodness is not performative. Rather, it is rooted in integrity.

Focusing on the heart over the material is not about disregarding success or ambition. Those things have their place. But if your values are hollow, if your actions are self-serving, then no amount of wealth or status can fill that void.

The people who leave a lasting impact on me, and on the world, are those who cultivate relationships.. They do so with love. They lead with empathy. They navigate life with humility. They remind me that the greatest wealth is found in how we treat each other, not in what we own.

Cultivate compassion. Practice empathy daily. Always lead with integrity. Strive to be the person whose presence feels like peace and whose actions inspire others to be better.

Because at the end of the day, the world does not need more impressive people. It needs more good ones. That, above all else, is what leaves a lasting impression.

Living with a pure heart,

Coach Erika