We go through life with all sorts of external issues defining who people think we are. Growing up, I was very introverted but rarely get defined that way today; then, in my twenties I “blossomed” into a “me first” type of person. It is funny how getting married and having kids can change all that.
I look back now and can’t remember a time when I actually thought about how my thoughts were defining me. I seemed to be reacting to everything and everyone around me. Do you ever have to assume a role to make sure people view you the way you want? Let me explain. I always want people to see me as a confident, professional and knowledgeable speaker. The problem is, my thoughts don’t always synch with my action.
What this means to me is that I “assume” I don’t have the confidence, professionalism or knowledge that I want to exude but I know that my actions are going to give the impression that I do. So, the question is, since my thoughts are creating an external perception, aren’t they also creating a new reality in me?
Think about your own situation. Who are you and who are you perceived to be? Your thoughts can take various roads in defining who you are going to be. Are you really the life of the party or is that a role you play? Understand that, if you create this perception, people may assume this is who you are.
All of this comes down to knowing who you are and/or who you want to be. I prefer to think of myself as reserved, private, kind, understanding, a good listener, etc. So, when I go into situations that may deviate from those qualities, I have to consciously think about I should stay the course or assume a “role.”
Just understand that your thoughts define you, accurately or not!
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