One of the things that can drag us down can be ourselves. We are defaulted to think negatively. In cave person days this kept us safe, a lion or tiger is at the cave door, and this is not good news. However, we don’t have lions or tigers at our door, and we don’t live in caves, but our brains still treat danger in the same way.
One key danger is often worrying about what others think of us and what they are saying. We play the whole conversation in our heads, and they are all bad things, never good!
We do need to manage this and realise, one what our mind or brain is doing, thinking of the worst-case scenario, but also consider they might well be saying something nice. Either way they are assumptions and assumptions aren’t helpful or positive as the assumption is always negative.
We instead of focusing on others, need to focus on ourselves and how we can be true to ourselves and trust and believe in ourselves.
We need and should spend all or most of our energy focusing on ourselves rather than others, and whilst it’s hard, once we get going and do this first, it can make us feel much better.
Below are some areas which you can start with to help you focus on you and work on dispelling what you ‘feel’ others are thinking of you.
Authenticity: Be true to yourself. Authenticity builds trust and credibility, both personally and professionally. People appreciate genuine individuals, and aligning your actions with your values creates a positive and lasting impression.
Effective Communication: Clearly articulate your ideas, thoughts, and intentions. Communication is a powerful tool for managing perceptions. Listen actively, express yourself clearly, and be open to feedback. Effective communication helps ensure that others understand your perspective.
Consistency in Behaviour: Strive for consistency in your actions and decisions. Consistency builds a reliable and predictable image, making it easier for others to understand and trust you. Avoid abrupt changes in behaviour that might confuse or create doubt.
Demonstrate Competence: In professional settings, showcasing your skills and expertise is essential. Consistently deliver high-quality work and demonstrate competence in your field. Competence naturally influences how people perceive your capabilities and professionalism.
Positive Attitude and Professionalism: Maintain a positive attitude, even in challenging situations. Approach problems with a solutions-oriented mindset. Professionalism in your conduct, whether dealing with colleagues or clients, contributes significantly to a positive perception of you.
Build a Strong Personal Brand: Whether personally or professionally, cultivate a strong personal brand. Define your unique strengths and values and consistently showcase them. A well-defined personal brand helps others understand what you stand for and what they can expect from you.
Remember that managing perceptions is an ongoing process, and it requires self-awareness and adaptability. Regularly assess how your actions align with your desired image and be open to refining your approach based on feedback and evolving circumstances.
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