Lights, Camera, Action!

We’re all judged and we all judge.

From the moment someone catches our attention.

It might be that we’ve not even met them, but their name pops up in conversation.

Something they did. Something they said.

Usually it’s the impact that makes it noteworthy.

How many times today have you talked about someone else?

Heard other people, talking about other people?

I still wonder, and sometimes worry, about what other people think of me. Particularly those people whom I’ve never met, but might have an opinion of me because of the things they’ve heard.

Occasionally I’m painfully aware that others are judging me. What I say. What I do.

And wisdom says you can’t and shouldn’t try to please everybody.

Be yourself.

That makes sense.

I can’t be who I’m not.

When I’m relaxed and happy, that’s okay.

But when I’m stressed, perhaps dealing with too many things at once, coping with so many demands I’m not sure I’m thinking straight, trying to discern what I believe is the best way forward whilst feeling pushed about on all-sides, then…

…how am I coming across?

…what impact am I having on other people?

…what does that say about me?

Taking on a raft of new responsibilities, a new role, one which feels exciting and also exposing at the same time, has made me more carefully consider what people think of me and my reputation.

I recognise I have natural tendencies that mean I work in a particular way. And sometimes that’s not necessarily what I think is the best way. But it is the easiest.

And when I’m stressed, I slip quickly into the easiest ways of working.

So I’ve created this diagram, based on a range of hints and tips on how to develop your reputation as a leader.

Understanding your thoughts and feelings, and how they drive your actions, gives opportunity to assess and if you want to, change what you do.

Focusing on actions that positively impact on others, will build your reputation.

For me, it’s a reminder that even small things, like saying thank you, all go into what people think and say about you.