Motivational influencers have been taking social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube and Twitter by storm. Most influencers online give their individual opinions and mindsets to help others pursue their dreams.
Many people have their different choices and opinions on their favorite influencers however, Olivia Dunne, a student-athlete at Louisiana State University (LSU) is also a fitness coach, entrepreneur and model. She has motivated many young women in gymnastics to pursue their best physique and to chase their dreams. Instagram has blown her status out of the water, earning her millions of subscribers and followers. Dunne’s popular message and goal for others is to empower women in athletics and to take control of their lives.
Chapman Hughes (9) chose Dunne as his favorite influencer.
“She inspires me because every day she wants people to be who they are, and she specifically inspires me to become the hard-working student-athlete I’ve always wanted to be,” Hughes said.
On other social media platforms like TikTok have different types of influencers. Some may influence athletics, motivation or encourage followers to try new things. Food-related influencers in particular have risen in popularity over various social platforms. A name not too many people are familiar with is Sammy Stoll, a TikToker and weightlifter who spends his time trying various protein shakes, snacks and powders. Stoll has earned many requests for more supplements and has been paid for part time sponsorships from popular companies like Ghost and Muscle Milk.
Keelyn Ross (11) works out and enjoys a variety of pre-workouts and other protein snacks and supplements before a tough workout. Influencers like Stoll have an effect on students concerned about their nutrition.
“I definitely like more natural flavors in the snacks I eat like granola and peanuts. Some of the chocolate shakes I’ve tried have tasted weird and so have the other chocolate flavored snacks I’ve eaten, so that’s why I prefer naturally-flavored protein snacks like peanuts and different types of granola,” Ross said.
David Goggins is one of the most popular influencers of today. A former Navy SEAL (Sea, Air, and Land) and ultra-marathoner, Goggins has inspired people over the past year since he has gained popularity on TikTok. He has influenced countless new fans through his story of overcoming adversity and pushing one’s limits both physically and mentally. Goggins’ own book, “Can’t Hurt Me,” has sold millions of copies worldwide, and like the other influencers mentioned, he has his own YouTube channel devoted to workouts and training. His focus is to promote the act of overcoming fear, learning discipline and reaching maximum mental toughness.
Andrew Metz (10) is a fan of Goggins and says that he has helped him in athletics.
“David Goggins is a person unlike no other, he is probably the toughest person I have ever seen, and he is very motivational. He has influenced me to be the best athlete mentally and physically, and he makes me think I can do anything I put my mind to,” Metz said.
The rising trend of online influencers have helped countless individuals to turn their lives around and to have positive mental health and self esteem. As more motivational influencers are gaining more fame via social media, positive attitudes and the idea of mental toughness have become more commonplace and accessible, creating a significant impact on how society acts and individuals pursue their dreams.
