I can’t tell you how many times I have heard and used the phrase, “Actions speak louder than words.” It seems to make sense. People say to watch another’s “feet” to really get a sense of the person.
I’m such a believer in words – assuming that people are really being authentic and truthful, that I have been duped (shocking!). Don’t get me wrong here … in my work life, I don’t get fooled. That’s a different story all together. But, as in all things – there are differences between work life and personal life. I’m such a believer in people, that in my personal life I assume we are all authentic.
I’ve been clear with myself lately that the words that come out of my mouth are those that I believe. I may not be able to implement them at that moment (and I usually say that) and, of course, I have flaws and screw up some times. But by being more authentic I am able to see those around me that are not.
I admit that in the past there were times when I would say something to someone, or commit to something, when I knew I might not be able to follow through. In those cases, my actions didn’t match my words and that caused some external and internal conflict. I’m trying to change all that.
Recently, I’ve been talking with a friend who for years has said the same thing over and over again. Yet, the feet were constantly moving in a different direction. The truth is, that if a person can’t act according to their words, then their words are false. That’s the sad part for this person (and those we know like this).
So, what does that mean for those of us that want to be authentic and be with authentic people? We simply need to be conscious of what comes out of our mouths. We need to ensure that we believe our words and can or want to follow through on them … and we have to act on them.
I feel sorry for the person I know who just can’t get those two matched up right now. We’ve all had that experience from time to time. Sometimes, there is so much pain that it is hard to let go, feel peace and find and follow those authentic feelings. Some learn this slowly and some never learn it. And, when our actions don’t match our words, we undercut our credibility – pushing those people away who really could have been there to help match them up.
Let’s all pay attention to this in our own lives – with our family, friends, kids and partners.
Have a fantastic day!
theyearof50 