My dictionary tells me that personality is the “personal or individual quality that makes one person be different and act differently from another.”
Personality is “the total physical, intellectual and emotional structure of an individual, including abilities, interests and attitudes.”
Personality is the sum total of all of our qualities. With this in mind, let’s explore the benefits and ramifications of a pleasing personality.
Today at lunch… one of the hostesses came by and, with a pleasant smile, asked us about our meal. We commented that it was delicious, and she said, “I’m really pleased. We’re glad you folks are here, eating with us.” After she left I commented to my wife that she was certainly a pleasant, attractive, personable young woman and my wife wholeheartedly agreed.
Unfortunately, many people have forgotten that we can choose to smile and be pleasant or to frown and be rude and thoughtless. Regrettably, too many people make the wrong choice and, as a result, their personality makes them come across as someone we don’t want as a friend or co-worker.
There is only one opportunity to make a first impression and all of us instinctively make decisions or judgments about an individual within the first few seconds of crossing paths.
With that in mind, I believe that when we teach our kids to smile, to be pleasant and cheerful, to be courteous and respectful of others, to pleasantly respond to requests or questions, we are helping them develop a personality that will open many doors for them. Once the doors are opened, only character will keep them open, so it’s even more important to give that personality a character foundation.
… Adapted from Zig’s book Staying Up, Up, Up In A Down, Down World.
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Zig Ziglar was a teacher and motivator. His work continues to inspire people all over the world to pursue success and go for their dreams. Learn more about him at www.ziglar.com