This was a cryptic crossword clue I came across recently.
(the answer is towards the bottom of the email)
The thing about cryptic crossword clues is they don’t always make much sense.
And there’s a lot going on beneath the surface.
Like double meanings, anagrams and hidden words.
So a clue can appear one way, but this hides the full story.
And you know what?
Humans are the
same.
Everyone has challenges and worries and doubts.
But sometimes these stay hidden beneath the surface.
What someone chooses to show is not always the full picture. Just like a crossword clue.
This is particularly true in certain jobs.
Because some jobs reward putting on an act.
One example is the act of being “impressive”. Going through the day with an overconfidence, swagger or bravado.
I certainly came across people like this.
People who have all the answers. There’s nothing that will phase them.
But it’s an act. Of course it is.
Because who doesn’t have worries or doubts? Who has all the answers?
No-one.
Yet people act like they do.
And you know what?
It’s not surprising.
I get why people act this way.
Corporate life rewards being impressive. It’s a way to get on in the workplace. Especially as you become more senior.
After all, if you express a doubt, an unusual opinion or you don’t quite meet the grade…
You could be passed over for a promotion, or a
bonus…
Or even be fired.
So corporate life encourages people to think “how does this colleague view me?” or “how can I impress this person more?”…
And change their behaviour to fit in.
This is how people make sure they’re going places at work.
I found it disconcerting. Because I didn’t feel this way. I didn’t have all the answers.
Far from it.
And it
looked like other people did.
But just like a crossword clue, there’s a lot we don’t see beneath the surface.
Just because someone or something looks a certain way, it doesn’t
mean it actually is that way.
So before I wrap up, I want to leave you with this.
If you’re someone who looks around and thinks “Gosh. Everyone seems so
impressive…”
Remember this:
Don’t compare how you feel on the inside with how someone looks on the outside.
Because you’re not comparing apples with apples.
That’s it for today.
- Tom
p.s. Whenever you're ready, here are the ways you can connect with me