The Thing.9/29/2020 When I hit my 40s, I realized something that was very important to me. Something I came to realize that held great worth. This “thing” has become more significant to me through the years and its value has greatly increased.
It’s not a family heirloom, or some cherished trinket. It’s actually not a “thing” at all. It is a verb; an action. This particular verb holds weight and gains more respect from me than many others. It is highly attractive to me and is always incredibly appreciated. By now, you’re probably chomping at the bit for me to spill the beans, eh? What IS this verb you speak of, Julie? Patience, young grasshopper. I like building suspense! Hehe. To me, this thing - this verb - means the person cares. It shows they respect me and my time. It demonstrates that they value me, and the relationship I have with them. This verb has come to be a key factor of who I tend to be drawn to, both platonically and romantically. Whether it’s a work relationship, a friendship, or something more, this verb has become an important, cherished quality to me and I notice it in others. What is it, you ask? What could this simple verb be that holds so much weight? Follow-through. Such a simple concept, but so difficult for some to actually do consistently. Now, I know that not everything you attempt or say, or promise, or commit to is easy to follow through on. Lots of things in life aren’t. But when you can follow through on the little things, that earns trust and shows your accountability. It also builds respect and dependability with each small effort. And all of those little things become a big thing. At least in my book they do. If I ask my kid to unload the dishwasher, and they say they will do it, I give them the benefit of doubt that they will. Because they have demonstrated to me in the past that they can and will follow through. Over time, with each task, responsibility or request, they've earned my respect and trust. It’s following through on the little things that are the big things to me. Showing up when you say you’re going to. I mean this both literally and figuratively. Just be true to the words you say. Follow through on whatever they may be. Whether it’s that you'll arrive on time, return a call, say you’ll be at special event, run an errand, or simply do the chore you said you’d do… follow through. It will speak volumes about your character and builds a dependable reputation that people will value. It demonstrates pride and consideration, speaks of your ethics and morals, and shows you are someone people can count on to show up both emotionally and physically. We all need people we can count on. Think about the times in your life when you’ve felt let down or disappointed. I can guarantee that probably 80% of them involved a lack of follow through, either from yourself, or someone else. Whether it was you (or they) that ‘dropped the ball' in some way, it led to disappointment. Now, think about who you turn to when you’re in need, or when you want to go out, or when you want to attempt a project or share a new experience. Is it the person who has consistently demonstrated they follow through? Or is it the sometimes wishy-washy person who’s typically late, or bails, or can’t be counted on to respond or finish a task? Don’t be the person that lets someone else down. Be considerate. Do the thing. Be a verb and follow through not only for those you care about, but for others. And, most importantly, for yourself. *If you liked this post, please click the fb button below!
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AuthorJulie Cassar, Best Selling Archives
September 2023
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