When did our words become so meaningless? We have become a society of lip service; saying the right things, but not putting them into action. This didn’t happen overnight, nor did it come out of nowhere. For decades now we have witnessed our leaders, politicians, celebrities and athletes, that were at one time thought to be extraordinary, falter. They broke their word to themselves and society and that became the example of how to live. Over time, this example has bred the meaningless, inauthentic and non-trustworthy traits that we see so many people exhibit today.

The biggest cry I hear from my coaching clients, friends and colleagues is when someone says one thing and never backs it up, follows through or, more importantly, isn’t consistent with their actions. We’ve all experienced this and been guilty of doing it ourselves, but since society has become so lax on people for doing this, it has become a slippery slope and unfortunately, the norm. Keeping your word holds more value than you think; it’s the foundation of your character.  Remember, in life, trust and creditability is the currency. You have surely heard the saying, ‘creditability or truth takes a lifetime to build, but can be destroyed in a second’ – it’s absolutely true.

Think of all the people that frustrate you right now; perhaps your boss, coworker, a friend, or a company you are a client of.  I bet the reason you are so frustrated is because you believe they have promised one thing and delivered something completely different. This simple idea is the core of so much of our frustration with society and each other right now. It all comes back to true leadership and the fact that a true leaders lead by example and backs their words up with real actions. These are the people that have earned the respect and admiration of society. These are the kind of people we strive to be, so don’t settle or let others around you settle.

I challenge you to each set the example you wish to see, for if we each were to take back the power of our words by simply following them up with the agreed upon actions, we would be creating the change we’re seeking. We would be leaders, even if that were only in our own circle of friends, coworkers or family. Also, don’t let others get away with breaking their word. Let them know that they didn’t meet their promise. You don’t have to do this in a mean, aggressive or rude manner, but letting it go unaddressed is a huge part of the overall frustration. We must stop being passive and hold others accountable to this standard. But remember, you cannot hold anyone accountable for something you are not first doing yourself.

Set a better example in life, be a leader and keep your word.

Get Extraordinary!

James