These lyrics are from the song made famous by The Who during my high school years. It remains prominent on the airwaves, especially as it’s also now a famous theme song from a popular television show. It also should act as a reminder that who you are perceived to be is totally in your own control. Your personal brand and reputation – not to mention that of the company you own or work for – are also controlled by whom you proclaim to be though your words and deeds. To that end, since we creep closer to the holiday season and promise of a new calendar year, allow me to offer a few thoughts for your consideration…
- Be careful what you write in public domain (e.g. social media). If you are about to use bad language, denigrate someone or a group of people, or embarrass someone publicly, then pause and consider hitting the DELETE key, rather than POST. Social media is a a dangerous Wild West when used recklessly.
- Smile when you greet people and for goodness sake look them in the eyes. Nothing is worse than feeling someone is looking past you, waiting to meet the person behind you. A smile costs nothing, but adds tremendous value to your personal brand.
- Don’t jump to “hostile intent” with people, especially in two-dimensional conversations (email, text, social media). I did this just recently and found myself apologizing in return. Most people that you consider “friendly” to you, don’t want to hurt you.
- Say please and thank you. It seems to be a shrinking art form. If you had a mother like mine, this was drilled into you.
- Speaking of lessons from Mom, watch your table manners. It says a lot about you and your respect for the people around you.
- Show genuine interest in others. If you’re in business, offer to find ways to help them, not simply because you want money, but because you have the skills and perspicacity to improve their condition. They should know that and might later thank you!
- Be giving. Find a way to give to others who may not be as fortunate, and not just during the holidays, but always. If you’re like me, someone helped you when you needed and weren’t expecting it. Do the same; you might just be more rewarded than they are.
Here’s the deal. folks. We all live on this planet together. While we may all have different ideas around faith, politics, global warming, and favorite sports teams, we do share the fact that we are all here together at this time and place. We all have unique talents and gifts to share. It’s a renewed time to focus on unleashing our best selves every day. When we do that, we will all know the answer to the question of, “Who are you…”
Join in on the conversation on my blog…
Quote of the Week:
“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”
~ Confucius
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