First Impressions

First impressions can sometimes make or break you! They can be a blessing or a curse depending on the situation.

Yesterday, my husband and I were at a restaurant. A staff member approached us and said someone would be with us shortly. His smile was warm, and his eyes looked welcoming. However, his body language told a different story. His shoulders were hunched, and he seemed unsure of himself. It wasn’t the nervous energy of a new employee on their first day, but from the neck down, he appeared to lack self-confidence in a big way.

Story 2 – First Impressions

There was this young lady who, whenever she is explaining something or when something does not go her way, is always over-the-top. It was almost like she was saying, ‘Look at me, notice me, and if you do not, I will talk louder or act more agitated.’ It was pretty irritating. I would often wonder—why doesn’t she calm down and talk? We’re listening.

However, one day while we were talking, she shared that she was the youngest in a large family and often got overlooked or never taken seriously.

Oh boy, all of a sudden, I understood the over-the-top reaction to just about everything. My first impression began to change because I understood how that could make a person feel unseen, unwanted, or devalued.

Sometimes, A First impression is all you’ve got!

There are certain situations where a first impression is all you’ve got. Be it for a job interview, meeting a new friend, going on a first date, or meeting your partner’s family and friends.

Some say they don’t want to be fake. I don’t understand what that means when all that’s needed is to treat others with dignity and respect. Treat them the way you want to be treated.

So, whether we admit it or not. First impressions usually stay with us, especially the bad ones.

The list below can be used in any situation, such as a job interview or meeting someone for the first time.

1. Smile for real-real (genuinely) – it’s universal, you don’t have to speak the same language, everyone understands a smile. It brings out the humanity in us and connects us.
2. Make eye contact – I am nervous when someone doesn’t make eye contact. They are either hiding something or shy.
3. Stand or Sit up Straight – my mama taught me that at a young age. It speaks confidence.
4. Be Yourself – You do not have to be fake – just the best version of yourself.

Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.

1 Peter 3:8

Small Changes That Make A Big Difference

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Grace and peace!

Cadeegirl Gee