Reputation
Daily Meditation #150–7/22/2022
As we mention nearly every day in these meditations and ad nauseum in the forthcoming book, YouDaimonia: the Ancient Philosophy of Human Flourishing, we must act in a manner consistent with who we aspire to be.
Acting in this manner, now, is how we become that person in the future.
But there’s more to it than that.
Acting in a manner inconsistent means we are lying to ourselves.
You tell yourself, “Man, I really have a drinking problem and I’m going to quit,” but then sneak in a beer. Inconsistent.
You tell yourself, “I really hate that I watch pornography every day. I’m going to quit this mind-dissolving acid,” and then end up watching porn. Inconsistent.
You insist, “I’m so unhappy with my weight — I am going to move more and eat better,” but continue to eat calorically dense and nutritionally poor foods while not moving enough.
Inconsistent!
Self-deceit is bad because you harm yourself slowly, decaying your joy through lies you don’t even know you are telling.
However, these inconsistencies bring ruination to your reputation as others see through them.
Our reputation is the most valuable form of currency we have.
It cannot be bought.
Cannot be traded for.
It can only slowly be earned…
And it is earned by acting consistent with how you portray yourself and with your words.
After all, “Actions speak louder than words,” but they are being veritably shouted into others’ ears when we say one thing and then do that thing.
Be consistent and genuine so others go forth and vouch for you. This shows trust and makes the shadow of you walk before you through a positive reputation.
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These are distillations from my coming book “YouDaimonia: the Ancient Philosophy of Human Flourishing.”
