You stand out when you are aware of who you are as a person and what you positively or negatively contribute to the table of life.
Although constant change makes us find newer and more effective ways of getting things done on a daily basis, there are some traits that are compromise-free. They are transgenerational and when incorporated into a lifestyle, make a visible difference in people’s perception of the individual. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them – Ephesians 2:20. The seven traits below are the most effective ways of standing out in life. Let’s look at them one by one:
Show Gratitude
A thankful spirit heals both the mind and body. Making the act of gratitude a habit shows that one understands life is really a journey. For each path taken, we must count our blessings, no matter how small and name them one by one. Try thanking God for someone or something daily. If you can’t think of something, thank Him for the air you are just inhaled and exhaled. Thank him for another day and the fact you can read or listen to this article. Trust me, an attitude of gratitude will take you far in life. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Be Punctual
This will never ever go out of fashion in our lifetime because being early is an undeniable precursor of your organizational skill. Nothing commands more respect than being known for dependability – keeping to time and word. When you are punctual, it means you value people’s time. In doing this, you are also taking the stress of a last-minute rush from you. Strive to be on the dot always. John 8:2 – And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him, and he sat down and taught them.
Hard work
Diligent and hardworking like an ant Whilst the glorification of the “fast life” continues to plague society in ways we can never imagine, hard work always stands out.
As long as what you do for a living isn’t crime related, you should take pride in it.
I must say though, that working hard doesn’t mean working in ways to hurt yourself. In working hard to earn a living, we must also find ways to work smart towards achieving our set goals. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom – Ecclesiastes 9:10.
Be Helpful
Knowing how to give and the act of giving to those in need carry unlimited blessings. What beats helping someone get through an obstacle even if it is just a word of encouragement? You won’t believe how far a hug, a smile, a phone call, support, a gift, a positive remark and so forth can go for some people. It doesn’t hurt to try. From experience, I can assure you that when you help another person in any way shape or form, you are making a difference. So, render more help with your words, time and resources – it matters more than you can imagine. Carry each other’s burdens and so you will fulfill the law of Christ” – Galatians 6:2.
Listen More
It is rewarding when you can lend your ears more than your voice in many instances. Listening gives your words more power. Some people enjoy interrupting others and I think this is condescending and gives the impression that you think you’re more important, or you don’t have the patience for whatever they are saying. It is good to let others express themselves. Author Roy T. Bennett sums it best: “Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. The greatest problem with communication is we don’t listen to understand. We listen to the reply. When we listen with curiosity, we don’t listen with the intent to reply. We listen for what’s behind the words”.
The key to being listened to is to do more listening. “A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel” – Proverbs 1:5.
Apologize Easily
Understanding being accountable for our own faults doesn’t make us weak, nor does it confer the stigma of shame on us. On the contrary, being able to apologize, not only exudes respect, but also shows that one isn’t scared of being wrong and acknowledging mistakes. An apology is also best done directly and physically without “ifs” and “buts” or “maybes.” Be the bigger person and always apologize as necessary. Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many – Hebrews 12:14.
Kindness
Being kind oftentimes costs nothing. However, in an age where people religiously adhere to the dictates of “Cancel culture” and are quick to bring others down for the sake of ego, we can say kindness may be scarce but not outdated. Consistently practicing kindness also makes one attract the best kinds of people. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you – Ephesians4:32.
If you already have these traits, a big kudos to you. If you have some, kudos as well and let’s strive to have all 7 traits.
Arlene Jones is a Jack of all word trades. She loves coffee and sushi when her pen is inactive.
