Dare to Live Without Limits Week of 2/15/2021

What types of examples are you setting for others?

More people are influenced by your words and actions than you realize. Your children imprint on your behavior. They model themselves based on what you say and do. Any people who you supervise at work take cues from you. If you serve customers or clients, they see your actions as representative of your business. You can be a positive influence on anyone you interact with.
People watch what you say and do. Leading by example is one of the best ways to be a positive role model. Acting in the way you expect others to act gives you credibility. Treat others with courtesy and respect. Keep your word. Be honest and ethical in everything you do.
A solid reputation takes a lifetime to build but seconds to destroy. Do the right thing. You know what that is. Cutting ethical corners is a dead-end road, which leads off a cliff. A reputation destroyed by lies or unethical behavior is next to impossible to get back.
Always act and speak in a manner you’re proud of. Never say anything you would be embarrassed about if it appeared on a newspaper’s front page. You never want to be in a position of worrying about your words or deeds being exposed.
Think before you speak or act. Never say or do anything while you are angry or upset. Doing so leads to bad decisions. It’s much easier not saying something rash than attempting to apologize for it later.
Being willing to do tasks you are asking of others demonstrates that there is no job beneath anyone. A boss who pitches in to help any employee earns well deserved respect from those he or she supervises.
Not being afraid to get your hands dirty speaks volumes about your character. Other people are far less likely to grumble about their work when you perform the same functions without complaining.
Problem solving sets a great example. Demonstrating how to find solutions, overcome obstacles, and persist in the face of challenges is motivational. Furthermore, a parent, boss, supervisor, or mentor plays a valuable role by removing impediments which interfere with others doing their jobs.
Take responsibility for what you say and do. Never make excuses. Apologize when you make a mistake or a bad decision. You will garner much more respect than if attempting to excuse or cover it up.
Never be rude, condescending, or mean. Putting others down sends a message that you condone this type of behavior. Avoid creating or spreading gossip. You can’t criticize anyone for being uncivil when you act that way yourself.
Communicate clearly. People can’t read your mind. Be patient when someone isn’t sure of what you are saying. Being understandable is your responsibility. If you are not sure of what the other person is saying to you, politely ask for clarification.
Treat people with kindness and respect. Help others to learn, grow, and improve. When someone makes a mistake, encourage them to determine what went wrong and why, so they can avoid repeating the same mistake.
Paying attention to others conveys respect. Listen when they speak with you. Use eye contact and body language to demonstrate that you are focused on what they are saying. You don’t have to agree with them, but you need to hear them out.
Being a positive influence leaves a wonderful legacy. You never know how far the impact you have on people will travel. The people you influence go on to influence others, who then impact even more people. So, the effort required to be a great role model is well worth it.

NOW AVAILABLE: "Dare to Live Without Limits," the book. Visit www.BryanGolden.com or your bookstore. Bryan is a management consultant, motivational speaker, author, and adjunct professor. E-mail Bryan at bryan@columnist.com or write him c/o this paper.  2021 Bryan Golden