First And Last Impression

I believe first impression is the last impression. Practically speaking, first impression always lasts longer. Perhaps that is why the emphasis on making a lasting first impression.

I like people who come across as honest, faithful, transparent, reliable and cool headed. Likewise I too want to come across as a noble, righteous, no-nonsense, sensible and cultured individual. Tall order ?

Out of all the qualities cited above, cool headedness is not one of my strong points. Ideally speaking a combination of all the virtues is the best but rarest to find. I also hate bragging and easily jell with earthiness.

Needless to say, I do not try very hard to acquire these vibes. A few are genetically embedded in me. A reasonably balanced mind is the one I am still trying to attain. I often get carried away and overdo my part.

I am told sincerity is my strongest element. I personally feel it has boomeranged quite often. Overplay of any one good or bad character is not desirable. It can be exploited as weakness. In today’s world kindness is taken as foolishness. A principled person is considered impractical because he or she is inflexible. A person driven by ideals as incompatible.

Moral of the story is even if one’s personality may have more than one  sparkling features yet the impression it creates is primarily dependent on the interactors’ perceptions and intentions. A virtuous person can also be taken advantage of easily though it may seem  a very pessimistic view.

Again, it’s important to let know how far you can endure the one you are impressing upon. I like  meaningful conversation. I like thoughtful behaviour. I like to appeal to a person’s rationale. I strongly believe one should be sensitive towards fellow humans and the environment. If my expectations are high I should also not fall short of other’ s expectations.

But again can I really transmit positive vibes if these are not innate in me ? Falseness and fakery cannot be disguised for long. You cannot pretend to be knowledgeable if you are not well versed. Biases and narrow mindedness are like cobwebs. If you do not dust them out they shine under light.

While on the subject, it is pertinent to underscore that making an impression is subjective and situational. If I am appearing for a job interview I would like my interviewer to be convinced of my competencies, potentials and  special aptitudes befitting a performance and result oriented career progression. While the employer must find me worthy I as an employee should also be confident that  an atmosphere conducive to healthy work culture will be made available to me.

In a public gathering a presentable personality carries weight who is able to mingle in the crowd yet at the same time stand out strong and remarkable. Amidst society of friends an amiable persona is liked the most who is attentive and charming.

Amongst elders an obedient and respectful demeanour is appreciated. In a public forum a firm and articulate voice is required. In community program leadership and skilful mentoring may help more.

In short, making an impression is as per the specific requirement of  time and place. It is impossible to manifest all the requisite characteristics as needed. Personally speaking, l have got along well with people with tolerable imperfections. I have been cautious of them and they of me. And that is how we have been able to achieve Aristotle’s Golden Mean without being repentant and regretful. That is how I suppose it works for everyone.

What say you ????