During the past two weeks, we have being exploring the question, “Do Others Know the Real You?” If you missed the last two blogs, I suggest you read them because they explored the importance of first knowing yourself, and then fully accepting and embracing who you are. This week we will consider how to you let others know the real you.
You may be so accustomed to hiding who you are that the thought of letting others know the real you is scary. This could be scary for a couple of reasons. One is that you are unsure of who is the real you. The past two weeks were meant to help you know and embrace who you are.
The second reason this may be scary is because you do not know how to let others know the real you. This week we are going to address this second issue: How do you let others know the real you?
Do not take responsibility for other people’s feelings or reactions. By this I mean you cannot and should not allow others’ feelings or reactions to keep you from expressing your point of view. You are no more responsible for the feelings and reactions of others than they are for yours.
You could become so concerned about how others will feel or react when you express your opinion that you would rather keep it to yourself – and become angry, depressed and sad – rather than risk getting the wrong reaction or hurting others’ feelings. Neither of these is your responsibility.
Always show respect and dignity for others when letting others know the real you. There is never a reason for you to disrespect or devalue anyone. Treat others in the same way you would like to be treated.
Therefore when speaking from the heart, taking a stand or disagreeing, always treat others with respect and dignity. Raising your voice and attacking others personally is bullying and weak.
It takes quiet strength to take a stand against all odds and still treat others with respect and dignity.
Be willing to admit when you are wrong. We are never always right on everything. Therefore, when you are letting others know the real you, and someone questions or points out an error in your position, be willing to revisit your position rather than digging in or becoming defensive. Nothing turns people off from wanting to know you as much as arrogance.
You, like everyone else, have a right to you opinions and also the right to express those opinions without fear or intimidation. To not let others know the real you is to live in a world that is controlled by the expectations of others. If you are continually controlled by others you will eventually lose yourself.
To be untrue to your true self is not the way God intended for you to live. To live for God and to live the way God intended calls for you to let others know the real you.
Do others around you know the real you? If not, why not start this week with letting one person know the real you.
If you would like help in achieving your goals in any area of your life, call us at 208-880-0307 or email us at errol@errolcarrim.com to schedule a complimentary coaching session. To read Errol’s other posts, visit Christ-Centered Life Coaching.
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