Your actions define you

Good morning! I hope you had a great weekend.

Every one of us leaves a lasting impression. Others define us by what they see in our actions. A good reputation is something to be treasured, while a bad reputation is difficult to put to rest.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the following names:
• Abraham Lincoln
• Richard Nixon
• Vince Lombardi
• Mike Tyson
• Judas Iscariot
• Jesus Christ

The Bible reveals to us a simple truth:

Proverbs 20:11 (NLT)
Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure and right.

The question becomes quite simply: “What are your actions saying about you?” Have your actions earned you the classification of selfish, arrogant, insensitive, bully, drunkard, etc…? On the other hand maybe you have been rewarded with the description of kind, honest, generous, capable or trustworthy.

The great thing about a reputation is your ability to change and improve that reputation. If the choices of the past have labeled you in a less than flattering light, you can simply commit to a change of behavior and in due time find that you are re-categorized. Your greatest tool to changing your label is to choose actions that demonstrate something different.

Recently I participated in a conference call with noted leadership trainer, John Maxwell. During that call John shared with us this thought that drives him every day of his life: “Your life will be summed up in one sentence, determine today what that sentence will be.”

Today as you consider your reputation, determine the sentence that will be written about you in the days to come. Your reputation is a statement of character, so handle it with care.

Until next Monday, may God’s richest blessings be yours this week.

Carl