Have you ever considered the effect you have on people?
I was thinking about this today when I noticed a pattern of responses towards me from others. Many respond in similar ways which means I am having a similar effect on them. Is that effect good or bad? I'd say not bad, but not particularly good. Why?
The effect I want to have on others include the following statements:
- I care about you
- I am here if you need me
- Sometimes I won't understand exactly what you need, that's when we need a conversation
- I struggle with patience at times
- I have little to no tolerance for behaviors that hurt and harm others
I'd like to say that I have the effect on others that makes for a good time, but as an often-all-too-serious person, that's not always my forte, but I do enjoy a good time.
With regards to the effects I have on others that I'd like to change a bit, it mostly comes down to oversharing. I'm accustom to sharing my deepest self, and for some, that self is difficult to understand or be at peace with. It is probably better for me to be more discerning about what I share as that would create less conflict and more comfort.
I believe it is important to be who you are, but I also believe it is important to consider the effect you have on others, and reserve some comments and actions to manage that a bit. Onward.