You have heard the expression “lead by example”.  What does this mean to you? 

 

In our current culture of constant communication and information overload, we are continuously inundated with ideas, concepts, theories and suggestions.  We spend our time reading social media posts and listening to podcasts and texting our friends.  Sometimes we seek specific information; sometimes we just want to talk; sometimes we just want to listen; sometimes we just want to laugh.  Regardless of our current mood, we are all voyeurs and consuming, consuming, consuming.

 

Have you ever considered the flip-side to that?  WHO IS WATCHING YOU?

 

If you were to sit down with a co-worker, friend, child, sibling, love partner and ask them to describe you…what would he or she say about you?  What qualities would they attribute to you?  And how would he or she say you spend your time and energy?

 

When you look at your life through the lens of those close to you, it may offer you some perspective on HOW you should be living your life and what kind of example you want to set.

 

For instance, if you are a parent, you know that your children are constantly watching and learning from you.  We know this by the expressions our kids use in their speech patterns…the same ones you always say (which can be problematic if you are prone to cursing!).  We see this in their physical mannerisms and how they process information.  We even see this when we observe what foods they like or don’t like.   Children are sponges and they are learning from us every moment.

 

But, it’s not just children that are learning from your behaviors.  If your friends know that you are a gossip, they are less likely to confide confidential information in you.  Or, if your co-workers know you are a really healthy eater, they are likely to seek your input on what they should choose to eat for lunch.  You don’t have to openly advertise how you are…those active in your life are watching you, even when it’s subconscious, and that is how they choose how to relate to you.

 

When you realize and accept this truth, it may impact how you behave and what attitude you choose.  If you know that others find you motivational and inspirational, you are more likely to have a positive outlook and wear a smile on your face.  If you know your loved ones look up to you and respect your choices, you are more likely to continue to make well thought-out, rational decisions.  If you know your daughter is watching your every move and wants to be just like her mom, you are more likely to show her how you love yourself and take care of yourself mind, body and soul.

 

We are all watching each other all the time.  Think about who’s watching you when you are choosing what kind of woman you want to be.