Influence Starts With You: Managing Your Reactions

Written by Alan Rees

In Articles 1 and 2, we established two foundations of Momentum: (1) Momentum is a relationship system, not a tactical one and (2) Connection must come before content because connection changes how people listen, collaborate and commit.

Article 3 builds the next layer which is that your reactions determine whether connection becomes influence or collapses into friction.

The Momentum Framework makes this clear: leadership capacity for influence starts with yourself. Before you can shape how others think, feel and act, you must first choose your own internal state.

When leaders react impulsively, two predictable behavioural patterns occur:

• The Pufferfish Leader — the defensive inflation of ego, saving face or authority.

• The Reptile Team Member — the fight‑or‑flight response that shuts down curiosity and connection.

Both reactions erode trust instantly. People retreat. Creativity drops. Momentum stalls.

But when leaders are able to choose the Response Mode of being calm, intentional and collaborative, everything changes. Response Mode unlocks coordination, co‑creation, commitment and communication. It is the behavioural engine of Momentum because it strengthens relationships in real time.

Your reaction is often the moment people decide whether to follow you.

Building Momentum requires leaders who regulate themselves first. When you respond instead of react, you create psychological safety, deepen connection and amplify your capacity for influence, which are the very ingredients that accelerate trust, loyalty, and advocacy.

Call to Action:

Identify one recurring trigger and practice shifting from reaction to Response Mode this month. This single behaviour will compound your Momentum.

For guidance on where to begin, reach out to Alan Rees: Vistage Chair.

Mobile: 0407 053 901

Email: alan.rees@vistage.com.au

Website: https://www.vistage.com.au/