Image Management
At CDP we define that term as 'controlling how others view you.' It's a tough one -- living up to the image that we put out in the world. Are we consistent with who we present ourselves to be at work? At home? In our social circles? On line? Or do we find that we are fractured in how we present ourselves? Are we one way at one place and a different version of ourselves somewhere else?
Staying 'true to you' isn't just a good idea. Being consistently who we are is necessary for our own health and well-being. If you find yourself playing chameleon, consider this:
Check the why. Why do you feel a need to be a different you in different places? What different aspects of yourself do you think you have to put aside at work or at home or with friends? What drives that need?
Know thyself. Understand your personality and your natural tendencies. Take a personality quiz (call us...we have a great one!) Learn why you behave in certain ways and what triggers you to be chameleon-esque.
Put the pride aside. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies in playing a part or putting on a mask. We want to pretend we're more or better or different than what we are. Get comfortable in your own skin - flaws and all. Do some self-reflecting and be willing to lay down the tendency to appear to be something you're not.
As we approach the season of spring let's do a little spring cleaning of our own image management and make sure who we are is consistent no matter what hat we're wearing or where we're wearing it.
-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP
