Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are – John Wooden
Merriam-Webster defines character as “the complex of mental and ethical traits marking and often individualizing a person, group, or nation.” Merriam-Webster defines reputation as “recognition by other people of some characteristic or ability.” A reputation can stand alone or with your character. Good character leads to a good reputation but a good reputation does not necessarily mean you have good character.
A reputation can simply be an image created by a person and maintained for a period of time. A reputation that is not supported by character is subject to change and what many of us call “smoke and mirrors.” Character on the other hand is a strong foundation that will remain after the “smoke clears.”
A person’s character is based on their ethics, morals, values and cultural influences. These variables can create good or bad habits. These habits will shape a person’s behavior and will solidify their name. It is like writing a name in cement and allowing it to dry. What is left is a permanent impression.
Have you ever met someone who lived up to their name whether good or bad? On the other hand have you ever met someone who did not live up to their name? They kept calling themselves one thing (i.e. good, bad, crazy, player, BFF, etc) but never exhibited the characteristics to match the description?
If you allow good character shape your brand, image and reputation, they will last a lifetime. However, if person’s character is bad and they are presenting a “good girl or good boy image,” it will be a matter of time before their true character is exposed! This is when people lose creditability. Once credibility is lost, it is hard to regain.
So the questions of the day are:
1. What impression do you want to leave on earth and the people that occupy it?
2. Do you want to have god sustaining character or be a character that pretends to be something else?
Please read and consider these biblical scriptures:
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:22 (NIV)
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