Would I Like Me?

A friend posted this on her facebook wall as she does with things from time to time to give us all a bit of food for thought. It seems quite ironic that said friend is one of the sweetest, most positive, down to earth and relaxed people I have ever met. She is also a yoga instructor and healthy living advocate that gives me tips periodically on things to try.

The post however, got me thinking. Would I like myself? I meet people each and every day whether traveling, working or picking up my afternoon cup of tea. People seem to react positively for the most part and I usually depart with a new friend, contact or business prospect.

What do you like about yourself and what do you think would turn others off from approaching you? I like to think of my sunny personality as a positive rather than an annoying negative and keep that golden ball of goodness toned down if I’m waiting in the morning queue at Starbucks. But it truly could be off putting to some, others may think it is a facade to hide my misery or insecurities.

Though I have withstood a great deal in the past three years, with those difficult times came a confidence that has allowed me to stop caring what others think of me as much. I really just can’t be bothered to care. Alternatively, I have also developed a deeper sense of empathy and find myself attempting to gauge a persons personality before we converse. If they seem outgoing I approach them in a completely different manner than I would with someone who is clearly more reserved.

I had a job interview just recently and at the end of it the head of HR said to me “I am so happy you came in, I just had a good feeling when I met you.” The statement caught me off guard but then made me so incredibly happy. If someone can get a good feeling just by being in your presence or interacting with you, then it makes you feel like you’re doing at least one small thing correctly.

This past week I also saw a client from one of my old jobs that I had not seen in months. She is a lovely older woman and when she saw me she pulled me in for a hug and told me she was saddened when my coworkers told her I had moved on. She then remarked that she missed seeing me “Walk around all glamorous,” and I had a good laugh because I see neither my outfits nor myself as glamorous.

I want to thank Jenna for posting that tidbit and all of the thoughts it fostered. Now, to finish my coffee.