How we are perceived by others is sometimes the result of what we’ve done in the past. Our personal behavior as we move through different situations may color what other people think of us and how much influence we carry. We often hear about personal branding and how important it is to make sure ours represents what we want it to portray. It’s a complicated issue and people may use all kinds of measuring factors regarding it. We may have no idea how we’re being judged, and who we really are may have nothing to do with the impressions others may assume. It’s dangerous to label people, and although we can’t prevent anyone from assuming things about us, we can refuse to judge those around us the same way. Branding is important in business, and how successful we are managing it will sometimes decide whether we are entitled to some opportunities. But in our personal lives, branding may be harmful and destructive. Although we need information to make good decisions, basing any judgement on hearsay, or rumor, or assuming people will do anything before they have the chance to try will never bring us success. We learn about people as we interact with them. Every time we meet with them, talk to them, or work with them we learn more about them and as we get to know them can decide how our relationship will be defined. The world is a big place and there are infinite human expressions and experiences. Instead of believing what we hear, we can allow others to show us who they are, and trust our personal wisdom moving forward to make the best decisions.
Everyone judges situations and those around them. It’s a natural reflex and when we see someone who is very much like someone else we’ve known we may make assumptions about who they are. We may instinctively assign all kinds of traits to them simply because they remind us of a previous situation. If we don’t have much interaction with them, those reminders may stay in place indefinitely. But everyone is different. Even people who look alike or act alike are not the same. Assumptions are dangerous and are sometimes based on fiction. We are wise enough to set aside any pre-conceived ideas about anyone and let them show us who they are. We can be open to building relationships going forward.
There may be times in our lives when we may be judged or excluded from something we desire because of a previous situation. Perhaps we didn’t manage something the way others felt was best, or we got caught up in some drama where there was no way to win. Life is complicated and sometimes we end up in places that convolute our path for a time. We all go through unexpected situations, but nothing is permanent. Change is constant, and we learn as we go. No matter what has happened in the past, we can be confident moving forward that we will make excellent decisions and choose the right road. We can find success ahead and achieve any goal we desire.
Today if you’ve judged someone without knowing them, let them show you who they are. Be welcoming and keep the doors open. There is great blessing in sharing our lives with others. Refuse to brand and label those around you, and learn about them as you go. Your life will be richer, and your relationships will be stronger.
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