StoryAthlete Principle – I Protect My Reputation…
Reputation is a long term game. On a day to day, moment by moment basis, it’s hard to see how each of your tiny actions matters in the grand scheme of things. But over time you begin to build a character that conveys your story on your behalf. Much like a movie, at a first viewing you don’t know what to expect. But upon re-watching, you can see the subtleties and nuances that seemed insignificant before. Your reputation works in the same way. You may not know how doing the right thing, providing encouraging words, or going the extra mile might be worthwhile today. But life will surprise you at how the dots can connect in the future. Protect your reputation. With yourself and with others.
As a believer in Christ who maintains a personal walk & relationship with Christ, my attitude towards ‘reputation’ is different from someone’s who isn’t a Christian.
I really don’t care what people think about me.
If I did, I would wear nicer clothes, have a more modern hair style, wear makeup, and not drive beat-up old vehicles that squeak and creak.
But even when I get a $40,000 commission or real estate flip profit, none of the above items even make my ‘top 10’.
What do I care about?
I care about the Lord’s smile – when He is happy, I am happy.
I care about ministering Christ to everyone I come in contact with.
I care about hearing the words at the end of my life, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Master.”
I care about a life well-lived that has eternal value.
Because of those ‘cares’, I naturally and indirectly protect my reputation.
For example –
I promise my clients that I will be brutally honest with them – and I am.
I always work in the best interests of homeowners and investors who work with me, regardless of how it affects me financially.
Funny thing is, I’ve discovered that when I do the above, not only can I sleep with a clean conscience at night, but I don’t have a shortage of business either.