We all have our own approach in how we contact entities, and in the relationships we have with them.
Our ‘view’ of them has many blinders, and inhibiting factors, and many of us are left operating with a fraction of the whole picture. We can see what we can see from where we stand, but the entities have different points of view. Where you are, the top of a tree, birdseye view, satellite vision etc.
/So, how do you know you are not just a pawn in another’s plan? Entities in particular. Do you think there is a possibility benevolence is backhanded? Are you REALLY certain you are in control or have you been granted the illusion of control?/
Spheres of influence areas important to entities, as they are to us.
Defined as “a field or area in which an individual or organization has power to affect events and developments.” This is your ‘reach’. What is within it, you may effect. What is outside of it, you have to get to first. Chances are if youre just getting into the craft, you wont be able to kill somebody with a curse. Your sphere of influence doesnt expand into control over death and destruction right off the rip, you have to work at it. Same with toppling a corrupt organization, or wealth magick. You wouldnt expect to carve a masterpiece out of a rock your first time picking up a hammer and chisel, would you? Same deal. The effects of manipulating this are far reaching,
Expanding this sphere can be done exponentially by connecting with others , and eventually having them be ‘under your flag’ so to speak. In this, their sphere becomes yours, and you now gain access to what is in that individuals reach. This is how groups work. When intentionally focussed, an extreme form of this concept is the creation of cults.
Those using spheres of influence on the subtle levels have the charisma that brings others trailing. Energetic attachment. Magnetized. I think the French have a phrase that I will butcher(im sorry 
): je nais se qua?
Those mentally focussed on the spheres have the manipulation down. These are diplomats, politicians, those who negotiate. Generally they make deals that wind up in their favor. They use carrots, or sticks. Good deal, win win, bringing you over to me one ‘solid’ at a time. Or a threat, bringing you over to me or i fuck you up until you come over to me.
Success is determined by, and also determines your reach. Often those who are successful do both of these things, intentional or not. In everyday life you can begin doing it, you can legitimately have people doing shit for you, supportive of your cause.
But herein lies the trick:
Those who you have leadership over, those who are contained within your sphere of influence, have varying needs and expectations which must be addressed. The best way, long-term, is by win-win negotiation(so you dont have do anything for free), and then teaching the basics so that the individual can finish work on their needs themselves; the work that you started for them.
Doing this doesnt necessarily have to be coldhearted manipulation. It could* be in a genuine and loving way.
So is your sphere your own? Or are you under another’s flag? How do you know youre not being completely played?
[Im not for nor against what people do or dont do, this is for general discussion on the topic]