When you meet someone, do you automatically assume and form
opinions about who they are? Do you make assumptions in your head about that
person and set expectations for them? This is true for most people (even though
we may deny it); we are guilty of preconceived notions upon a first impression.
Do these first impressions change over time or are they set in stone for you?
If you saw a guy in old, dingy jeans and a t-shirt,
would a CEO of a successful, international company come to mind? This Whole Foods
Market CEO dresses in his own style, but the bottom line is that he rules the
market. Or maybe there has been a time that a person looks absolutely charming
until they open their mouth? We tend to jump to conclusions too quickly, which
may not be the best route to take in our personal and professional lives. A
famous idiom often used is “do not judge a book by its cover.” It is very
important to be able to give the person a chance to prove themselves and not
develop an impression. We were taught this lesson as children, yet we
tend to forget the wisdom learned at that age. Taking the time to force
yourself to dismiss your immediate assumption not only allows you to see someone
with new eyes, it also opens the door to a new experience. Having the vision
to recognize these situations and reroute the usual assumptions is a great way
to Think Huge.
Sometimes, forming impressions lead to a form of
discrimination that we as individuals may not even realize. We have certain
misconceptions of various people and as human beings, we tend to identify one
individual’s doing to their race, age, gender, religion or beliefs. Forming
opinions according to the misconceptions keeps us from treating each other
equally. By keeping your renewed vision of fairness in mind, you allow each
person the opportunity to prove themselves.
Developing impressions and assigning expectations according
to them can be quite unpredictable. You may form high expectations of someone,
but when they are not able to meet those expectations, it causes you
frustration. This also goes for people forming expectations about you. Always
under promise and over fulfill to exceed others’ satisfaction. When you are
hiring someone, looking to do business, meeting for a date or even just dealing
with a stranger, Think Huge about others’ possible potential. Maybe these
people will return the favor and not make first impression assumptions about
who you are.
Do you believe that first impressions are lasting
impressions? If so, why? Leave a comment and let’s find out!
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