Does Your Reputation Match Your Character?
It has often been said,
“Character is what one is; reputation is what one is thought to be by others”
and it’s so true. No matter how hard we try to be ourselves in this world, there are always going to be those who see us in the wrong light. Their own personality, experiences, or culture, bring them to interpret us differently than we would wish.
In the online world, no matter how expressive we are, the full extent of our character can never be seen. It’s limited by a medium which excludes physical, visual, and oral contact. However, no matter how long we’ve been acquainted with communication via the Internet, we still forget this, and not understanding the fact that we may be misunderstanding someone, often has a lasting negative impact upon our online relationships.
Be yourself, it’s usually safer
I say again, our online dialogue is not the same as face to face. You can be a coward in real life, but online, you can be whatever you want. Bold or timid, outgoing or reserved, deceiving or honest; almost anything at all.
Sometimes people even act in a sick manner, wishing to cause harm. Remember the old saying,
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.”
What a lie! Our words can have a huge impact, and for someone who enjoys causing distruction with their words, the Internet is a great tool, but is that your desire?
This isn’t a game
Whether it’s leaving a comment on a blog, or a forum, always let your input be seasoned with love and grace. The people you’re interacting with are real people. They have real feelings. Sometimes these real people have bad days; days possibly filled with much sorrow, heart-break, or loneliness.
Even a critical comment on a blog post, if said the wrong way, can really upset some people if it comes at a bad time.
Consider
Your real character may be loving, tender, and empathetic, but online you’re not building your character, you’re building your reputation. Be diligent to ensure your caring character, becomes part of your reputation. Make sure people see the real you.
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9 Responses to “Does Your Reputation Match Your Character?”
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where’s the frickin’ RSS feed button???
AIMM - Click on the link under “Subscribe” in the sidebar, or on the link at the bottom of each post. I did have an orange RSS icon up until a couple of days ago, but it was causing problems where it was at. I’ll get it up again in a new place.
I guess your character actually defines you and brings out the you in you. It tells the world who you are then its left to people to take it the way they want and that is your reputation
Great post. I try to be as real as possible everytime I comment. Some people like me, some don’t. Oh well, can’t be liked by everyone.
Люблю когда по сути, мне понравилось.
Great excerpt Your Character has to match your reputation I just believer that as a man thinks so is he..
Beautiful!
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I really agree with this post. Whether your online or offline be yourself. Don’t be someone who you know your not