Over the course of our life we are taught many lessons. We usually learn the hard way but nonetheless, we learn.
The most important lesson I have learned from dealing with others is simply this – it’s not what they say, but what they do that matters.
We have become a society that loves to say nice things and avoids the truth.
We’ve all had people say “Call me anytime,” or “If you need my help just let me know.” The only problem was they didn’t mean it.
I called – they were busy. I needed their help – they were busy.
For some people words have little meaning except to please others. They have no intention of honoring what they say.
For this reason as I have gotten older I have chosen my words carefully. I have learned the hard way that what you say can come back and bite you in the ass from time to time.
Things such as “I promise…” or “I will…” are quite different from “If I can…” or “Maybe I’ll be able to…”
I am shocked how many people actually are “men of their word.” It sometimes feels like it’s a dying breed.
But fear not, there are those who still honor their commitments. We just need to make sure we watch what they DO, not what they SAY.
Saying is the easy part – it takes two seconds to say “If you need my help putting your bed together just let me know.”
Doing is the harder part – it could take a few hours to put the bed together. Not only that but there might be some sweat and blood as well.
- Saying – 2 seconds, no sweat, no effort
- Doing – 2 hours, sweat and possible frustration
So the next time you talk to your friend, your mother or even your boss make sure you choose the right words.
And if you say you’ll do something, as Nike says, “Just do it.”
Adrian Shepherd