THE highest accolade given to personalities belongs to those who distinguish themselves from the pack: from the get-richquick bunch and those whose foundation is based on debased practices and or values that can never stand the test of time. These dynamic individuals set standards without meaning to: by their comportment and carriage, they win the respect and admiration of people. This is because their values and principles are of the nature that thrives on the principles of respect and consideration for one's neighbor. This attitude is not based on contemplations of hierarchy or selfish motives, but is sincere and graceful. The integrity and decorum of these individuals make them stand out.These personalities never start at the very top; they pass through the same process most of us do. However, their integrity and strength of character propel them and distinguish them until the world cannot but honor them. We see it when a man or woman steps into the room and without saying a word everyone tries to bend over backwards to bring their wishes to pass. They might not be immaculately dressed or be publicly known but you just find that a quality in them inspires people to try to emulate them.People from different backgrounds and levels of hierarchy can distinguish themselves in this way because it is not based on material things, rather it stems from an ethereal calm and self-control that speak of maturity, wisdom, grace and professional mien. These qualities cannot be faked. It is an unconscious conviction (generally reckoned) that an individual who is able to control himself or herself is able to steer each situation and people to a favorable and positive disposition. Their undeniable charisma makes them natural leaders in every situation or environment in which they find themselves.We see these attributes in individuals such as Barack Obama, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Nelson Mandela etc., whose grace, healthy self-confidence and strong conviction in their beliefs and values won the hearts and loyalty of the people. They based their actions on the principle of the golden rule; Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Don't be fooled by the simplicity of that statement; If you would base your decisions and actions on that, you would know to be kind to your neighbor; to be fair and gracious; to value a person's time and interest; to treat everyone with respect whether they deserve it or not; not to take bribes or give unfair judgments; to love yourself and treat yourself as you would have others treat you, to promote good works and encourage the discouraged; to go the extra mile and have a belief that motivates others; to ask for and give excellence, etc.Most people make the mistake of thinking of service as demeaning. On the contrary, if you want to be a true leader you have to be in the business of serving people. In case that sounds too biblical for you, consider those people who out of nothing became a force to be reckoned with. Consider Bill Gates (co-founder of Microsoft) and Sam Walton (founder of Wal-Mart), what do they both have in common' They answered to a real need. They uplifted the masses by adding true value to their lives. Yes, it is a give and take world; what you give is what you will receive; in other words, the measure you gave is the measure you will receive.On a final note, I'll leave with a saying from the world's wisest king: 'Let not kindness and truth forsake thee: Bind them about thy neck; Write them upon the tablet of thy heart: So shall thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.' ' King Solomon. (Proverbs 3:3-4)We have treated the principle on which to base your decisions without doubting that you're making the right moves. Next week we will deal with various habits and expressions that have to do with hospitality, putting your best foot forward, pointers on winning friends, gaining influence and elevating your status. If this article identified with your desire to distinguish yourself in a captivating way, then don't miss the next one; you will gain practical and graceful skills that you can put to practice right away.Image and Etiquette addresses general perceptions, societal norms and expectations and personal expressions with the goal to cultivate social graces, suavity and a dignified presence for interpersonal relationships. If you have questions on Image and Etiquette please send them to regalgraces@yahoo.com or SMS 08062280952.08167089656 (SMS only).E-mail:regalgraces@yahoo.com
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