TUESDAY THOUGHTS: INFORMATION, REPRESENTATION, CONFRONTATION

So. 

I tried to reply to a message several times but couldn't. No. The phone was working fine, it was my writing skills and use of tactful language that seemed lacking. 

I thought about just typing, "You've got to be kidding me", but I decided against that, too. There was just no nice way to respond. 

It occurred to me that some people believe, and are heavily invested in the lies they tell, and are hoping you will join them in denial. The message was so absurd, I actually laughed.

These days, it's too easy to verify information for some people to ever think they can pull the wool over the eyes of even the most clueless individual. 

Finding some answers doesn't require high tech, clandestine activity. 

Getting to the bottom of things can be as simple as a phone call, a saved or forwarded text message, an email--or a face-to-face conversation between all parties involved. 

Some people never expect that to happen.

Speculating and wondering, when answers and sources are readily available, is for those who don't mind being in the dark. Want facts? Ask the people who would actually KNOW them. Anyone who is offended by your inquiry--particularly about those things that concern  you, probably has dirty hands. 

Watch that person who:

1. is always trying to stifle pertinent questions, and keep you and others quiet, and in the dark. 

2. attempts to prevent you from even meeting certain people. 

3. always has a disparaging story about others, but are always elevating their own status, or boasting of their connections.  

4. always has some convoluted story to explain shady behavior

5. want you to refer to what they meant as opposed to what they said.

6. doesn't think you are supposed to proceed or succeed without them.
7. tries to convince you that your memory or comprehension is a little off.

That "Let me handle it" spirit, that seems to know ALL, while being quite content that others only have partial, or no information at all, is a sly one! That's not someone who's genuinely looking out for you. They're looking out for themselves. 

Everyone cannot speak for you! 

Are you being represented by someone you have not authorized? If you find that's the case, fix it immediately. If you have a manager, assistant, handler, spokesperson, advocate, or right hand man, YOU shouldn't be the last one to know! If you have "people" you should know who they are! 

If anyone is going to profit off of your effort, shouldn't that be you? If anyone is cutting into your profits, or negotiating on your behalf, shouldn't you be aware of that-- AND the numbers?

Wonder why you're missing out on opportunities? 

Wonder how you got roped into something with which you never agreed? 

Wonder why you're not being fairly compensated in a timely manner, or not being compensated at all? 

Wonder why you're receiving information at the ninth hour?

WHO'S SPEAKING FOR YOU?

Who's promising your service? 

Declaring your availability? Apologizing for your absence when you didn't even know you were supposed to be present? Who's acting as your representative--and acting poorly? 

Don't sleep on that. Find out. 

It's unfortunate if you find the culprit is a friend, but at least you'll know.

Whatever you do--whatever your field of endeavor--unless you have consciously secured a trusted individual to handle your business for you, it would be prudent for you to handle it for yourself. 

Set your own parameters. Own your strengths and limitations. 

Gain clarity. 

Know what is expected of you. 

Be dependable. 

Do your job well. 

Maintain good character. Cultivate a favorable reputation.   

Some people think that your world is small; that you aren't well acquainted with certain others, and can't, or won't consult with them. What makes people think you don't have a voice? Perhaps it's because you never used it before. Perhaps you were a bit too trusting and easy-going. Perhaps you weren't a fan of confrontation. When it comes to your livelihood, you can't afford not to be.

Some things are not the results of simple misunderstandings or innocent miscommunication. They are the results of the actions of opportunists who are always trying to get over, but not by virtue of their own steam. 

Some people flat out LIE, have no qualms about throwing others under buses, and banking on their ignorance.

These days, documentation is your friend. (Aren't you glad you saved that text or that voicemail message? Whew! )

When it concerns your livelihood, don't EVER be afraid to embrace confrontation. 

Refer to the records you keep. 

Don't ever be hindered from seeking information that involves you, or your work. Have an above-board policy in all of your dealings. 

It is not your concern if someone has to hurry and cover their tracks.

 
Good for everyone involved in a matter when the forgetfulness, procrastination, incompetence, dishonesty, poor business practices, and lack of integrity of an individual is no longer tolerated, minimized, or treated as a joke.

"Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely; who conduct their affairs with justice." – Psalm 112:5