How to Make a Lasting Impression: The Secret Behind Maya Angelou’s Famous Quote

"I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
– Maya Angelou

In the age of digital overload and short attention spans, making a genuine emotional impact is more important than ever. If you're building a business, leading a team, or simply trying to create stronger relationships, this timeless quote offers the key to being remembered.

This article explores how you can apply Maya Angelou's wisdom in your everyday life and work, to build deeper emotional connections and make a lasting impression on others.

Why Emotional Impact Matters in Business and Life

When people remember how you made them feel, they remember you. Emotions drive human decision-making more than facts or figures ever will. In business, this could mean customer loyalty. In relationships, it could mean deeper trust. In leadership, it could mean true influence.

Science confirms it: Emotional experiences are stored more vividly in our memory due to the brain’s emotional processing center—the amygdala—working directly with the hippocampus to prioritize those moments.

How to Make People Remember You (for the Right Reasons)

1. Practice Presence Over Performance

When you give someone your undivided attention, even briefly, you make them feel valued. Eye contact, genuine listening, and asking thoughtful questions go further than most people realize.

“My mentor once remembered the name of my son and asked how his championship game went. That single moment made me feel seen.”
— Robert L., Financial Advisor, Minnesota

2. Lead with Empathy, Not Ego

People respond better to connection than correction. Before delivering feedback, show that you understand. A warm tone and an open heart can turn a hard conversation into a bonding moment.

“People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.”
— John C. Maxwell

3. Celebrate People, Not Just Accomplishments

Even a small compliment can create a ripple. Recognizing someone’s efforts or simply remembering their name makes them feel respected and appreciated.

“I’ll never forget when my high school janitor told me he was proud of me during graduation. That single sentence outshined everything else that day.”
— Cameron L. Proulx

4. Be Kind—Especially When It's Difficult

Anyone can be kind on a good day. True character is shown when you're kind on a bad one. People never forget the calm voice in the storm.

“When I was let go from my job, my manager cried with me. That moment stayed with me more than any raise or promotion ever did.”
— Julie M., Texas

Real-Life Examples of Emotional Connection That Lasted

Oprah Winfrey

Known for her ability to make anyone feel heard, Oprah built a global brand on emotional connection. Her interviews weren’t just seen—they were felt.

Mr. Rogers

Fred Rogers made children feel safe, accepted, and loved. His gentle presence and thoughtful words created emotional safety for generations.

5 Ways to Make Someone Feel Valued Today

Action ... Emotional Impact

Smile sincerely ... Builds warmth and trust

Remember a personal detail ... Makes them feel important

Ask real questions ... Creates connection

Say "thank you" with intention ... Shows appreciation

Stay calm during stress ... Builds emotional safety

Final Words from Cameron L Proulx

“The people I remember most didn’t always have fancy jobs or big titles. They were the ones who made me feel respected, inspired, or seen. That’s who I aim to be today—someone whose presence makes a positive difference.”
— Cameron L Proulx

Your 7-Day Emotional Impact Challenge

Each day this week, make one person feel heard, appreciated, or valued..

Write down what you did and how they responded. You’ll begin to understand just how powerful emotional presence really is.

If you’re in leadership, sales, entrepreneurship, or personal development—this is the foundation of true influence. Build trust. Create connection. Leave a lasting impact.