The best way to maximize your influence and at the same time improve your own situation is to forget about yourself and focus on others. In uncertain times, people tend to withdraw but will always appreciate attention shown to them.
When you focus on others, you will help them to transform their negatives into positives and they in turn will be grateful and helpful to you. This contribution will assist them and will shine back on you as well.
To illustrate this theory, think about how the holiday season tends to bring out the best in people and think about how good you feel when you give a little extra.