Practicing what you preach.....staying true to your words.

I strongly believe we all need to pay attention to that great song by Barry White titled “practice what you preach” It has a very potent message. It talks about a quality that has been lost by many in our generation. Many individuals, corporate organizations, leaders (religious and secular), these days seem almost all to be guilty of not walking the talk. Let your actions speak for your words. If you say you will do it, then do it. The best way to get results is to practice what you preach. You must take action on what you are saying. When you support your words with action, you transform expectations into reality. There is always a time for talking and a time for doing. Make sure you know where one stops and the other begins. Doing something now, is almost always better than saying everything and doing nothing! Instead of making a promise that you know you’re not going to keep, say “No” at the outset and refuse to make commitment.

This also applies to the promises we make to ourselves, as well as others. Don’t make a promise that you know you can’t or won’t keep. Don’t ever think that the act of lying to yourself is harmless with a mindset that after all, you are not hurting anyone else. That is indeed a shortsighted view. The truth is; your impact on yourself inevitably affects those around you. This is true at work, at home, and in your community. You must constantly live up to your words. Remember, "actions speak louder than words". Your actions are, more than often, the determinants of your behaviour and character. It is always easier to tell who you are when what you say contradicts what you do. Indeed, what you do is more significant than what you say! This does not in any way mean that words are not also powerful. Words certainly have the capacity to harm or elevate and they may sometimes speak louder. Words are important and people do listen to them and sometimes don’t always wait to judge whether words are backed up with action but I bet you it is wiser to ensure that words are backed up by actions. Your actions should meet your verbal obligations or views rather than contradict them. Action, like they say, is the true essence of leadership. Any leader must always act true to his words. It is always "easier said than done." Learn how to be motivated to take your words to the 'streets'. Don’t just say it, ACT IT; and when you do, not only will you find motivation but you will find inspiration and fulfillment of purpose.

I am well aware of how difficult it might be to keep up with acting true to your words considering the seeming reality of our prevailing environment. This does not mean it is impossible. While we are striving towards perfection in this regard, here are few tips that might be helpful. If you are working with a consistent to-do list, get anything that is requested of you on the list immediately it comes up. Truth is, you will be less likely to forget something if you commit it to paper. As much as possible, always clear your to-do list and avoid procrastination. Are there tasks which you are repeatedly being asked to perform that you consistently put off? Look closely and ask yourself why. Are you afraid of something? Some constant honest reflection might very helpful. Remember, Integrity and reputations are some of the most valuable assets that you own. You must work towards preserving and improving them and keeping your word is a great way to do so. You must GIVE ACTION to you words, your thoughts and your aspirations today. May God help us all. Feel free to share your comments and submit your email in order to get my daily posts directly in your e-mail. Thanks.

Note: I write not as someone who is perfect but as someone who daily strives towards improving and preserving my reputation.