World Class Blog, Passive vs. Active Positioning

Positioning, it’s how we show up, what we offer, and the things we do to showcases or conversely play down our unique values. How we do that depends on our predisposition, our comfort level. Who we’re with, external influences, the central theme or subject of the moment all have an impact. Are we intimidated or are we confident, are we predisposed to showing up as a passive participant or an active contributor. Positioning without purpose gives our passive predisposition control. Positioning is defining. It defines for others our character, our intent, our perceived value or lack thereof. Not things best served by chance. For my money, positioning is worthy of forethought.

If you show up passively, others may walk away believing you’re a lightweight at best or of no consequence at worse. Not a fact, but it can influence an erroneous and influential opinion, in the absence of unproven or a contrary experience. It’s not up to anyone else to uncover your essence it’s up to you and you alone to assert your value. Take responsibility.

Showing up passively typically positions you to be subservient. Being passive can serve a purpose when done with intent. As your exclusive strategy being passive only serves to undermine your strengths and abilities. When predisposed to passivity, we block our natural essence, our creative selves and the dynamic influence we have to offer. As an exclusive strategy passivity is the emotional result of fear, buried emotions and other crap that’s been weighing you down for far too long. Inevitably the lasting experience we take away, once again, is regret. We tone down the negative connotation of being a passive wallflower by justifying it as a personality trait. Labeling passivity with names such as shy, introverted, or even reserved. Polite words for a debilitating ailment.

Showing up as an active participant isn’t being pompous, pretentious or cocky when done with humility. Speak from the heart, don’t try to impress just speak with sincerity and the conviction of your beliefs. It takes repeated practice, so don’t just try it once and dismiss it as not working or suiting who you are. Like anything worthwhile it needs repetition to develop.

Showing up actively positioning is not arrogance, it’s more about accountability. Being congruent with who we are, what we want, and where we want to go. It’s an honest agenda, no slight of hand or manipulative moves, just clarity, and purpose. Up front and clear, proud of where I’m going, and what I’ve got to offer. Actively asserting the things we care about, the value that we offer and the honorable beliefs we bring to our commitment.

Prepare for active positioning ~ Think World Class