Reputation

Ever have to engage in combat to regain your previously untarnished reputation?  Sometimes a reputation really is important.  Sometimes it’s not so important.  Problem with that is when it is important, it’s typically really important and may have some impact on your entire future.  Your future at a company, your future in a relationship with someone you care about, your future with your family, and many other types of interpersonal relationships.

Every human is responsible for their own actions and reputations. Regardless of what those around them are saying and doing that effects how they are perceived – whether positively or negatively. 

But, alas, we are all human and have an innate need to have others surround us and we strive to live generally social lifestyles.  Whether that means solely within our family or with almost anyone we possibly can kind of depends on the person.  I’m more of the latter; I’ll talk to anyone and I’ll strive for a close relationship with anyone (who seems worthy – and I do have standards).  No matter who we are, though, we are going to attempt to lead social lifestyles – you know, barring mental illness, vows of hermitage and other such things.  We’re not likely to go into work and not at least exchange some sort of pleasantries with one or more people.  It’s normal, it’s natural, and at this point, it’s pretty much expected.

And sometimes, with tarnishing, comes some major combat.  It's seldom easy and very often very challenging.  You have undo the bad that was done just to get to 'normal' levels of reputation.  And then work up to the untarnished.

That, is what I'm challenged with now.