| When we hear the word “fame,” we think of movie stars, rock singers, and politicians, whose careers depend greatly on popularity. We do not usually relate this word with our own lives. The truth is that we all have a circle of influence — the bulk of the people we know and with whom we interact. These people have formed an opinion of us based on our behavior towards them over time.
Fame and reputation have to do with integrity and with how others perceive us. Having integrity makes us trustworthy.
In the times of chivalry, honor & virtue were very important. Offenses to either of these were reasons for duels and wars. If a man did not honor his word, he was rendered worthless in the eyes of his peers.
Having a good name is still important today. It brings you respect from your neighbors and community in general. Word of mouth is still the most efficient way of attracting customers to a business.
Do people refer your business or services to their friends and family? Do your friends speak highly of you? Do they know they can count on you? Or do you suddenly find yourself being the target of gossip, or discover people are talking behind your back? I once heard a wise man say: “Live in such a way that whatever people say about you won’t hurt you —even if what they say is not true.”
We were not designed to live alone. We thrive when we feel part of a community, when we interact with other human beings. If this interaction expands beyond the boundaries of family and work relations, we become part of a network of increased possibilities and connections, which will manifest in better chances of meeting potential partners, business associates, and just people whose company we can enjoy.
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