INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
We often forget that this “first impressions” thing we laud so much from time-to-time, has two sides to it. Perhaps it might be wise for us to give a bit more attention to the observe side to learn what might be like when people meet us for the very first time.
Our first impressions, while sound in many ways, but they can also ,from time-to-time, prove to have been deceptive. Wisdom dictates a second estimate might be best to consider before final decisions are made.
Homage is so often paid to “first impression” being correct on TV and radio quiz shows. That first answer which comes to mind is, quite often, said to have been correct whereas others were contrived. Unfortunately you hear the claim stated more often when a contestant has lost than when he or she has won a prize by giving a correct reply. I'd say the jury is still out on holding first impressions to be, even generally, most correct. Wisdom dictates at least a glance at a second estimate of true facts in most cases.
None of us is perfect. I think we must admit that we are not only marked by imperfections but also that we have been wrong more than we realize or admit. By that, I do not mean we are criminals in need of special care .Our infractions of set rules of good conduct are mostly minor in character. .So often we are on the defensive and not to well informed concerning who our real enemy might be or what they are doing against us. We can do better. The constant effort we can take to improve our capabilities is of the utmost importance.
Stop talking so much and listen more, is one thing I have had to learn and I feel I am much more of a “get along with” person because of that attention to real need of my own. You may be called upon to allow someone else to be the achiever. It is not going to be easy and there are other things you may well be called upon to do or to leave undone if you trust ourselection to the chance of a initial impression you have or think you have. “Love at first sight” is a good example of first impression strategy at work. It seems romantic and exciting; adventurous - but nature has put enough of those qualities in marriage as it is without adding extra qualities, I have a feeling that those who do rely on first impressions when choosing friends and associates are really doing a rather extensive survey touching on the points we have mentioned and many others – as unique at time as they themselves may really be.
What is really most important is what type of impression are you provide for them? This thing works both ways. What first impression are you setting forth? Is it truthful? Is it valid? Are you comfortable with it? Does it fit well?
If not, consider changing it here and there.
A.L.M. January 15, 2005 [c507wds]
