Give Them Enough Rope

One of the things I’ve learned over the years is people have a tendency to carry past experiences into their future encounters. Meaning, if someone lies or cheats or steals from them, then people gradually treat the people they meet as if they will lie, cheat, or steal from them. It may well prove a self fulfilling prophecy, but that’s not my point. Their prior experiences may taint future relationships because they’ve developed a bias based on one or two encounters.

What I’ve learned is to give everyone a clean slate. I do my best to ensure everyone I encounter starts with none of my negative experiences. Days ago I was discussing it with a friend and explained that, “I give them enough rope to let them hang themselves.” Meaning, if your intent was ill willed, time will tell. I don’t go into new endeavors thinking someone is out to take advantage. I take people at their word. The challenge is most people don’t do what they say they will do, but that’s not my concern.

My actions are my concern. I will treat everyone fairly and without bias, until they show, through their own deeds, they are unworthy of such trust. Things sometimes get delayed, invoices aren’t paid promptly, some company practices may get stolen, but none of those things are irreplaceable. The relationship, built on a foundation of trust, is the important thing. Once the foundation has been corrupted, the relationship crumbles. It’s happened many times and I’m certain that it’ll happen again. It’s part of my journey.

Today, Friday, August 19, 2022, I am grateful that:

Herb and I had our weekly conversation. We’d spoken briefly a few times this week, those were impromptu, but our scheduled calls are something I’m usually happy to have. Our dialogue offers some insights I don’t get from anyone else and I’m happy to have his counsel.

D.C. sent a little work my way. He’s got a few open projects already and he keeps piling in new tasks. I could increase my activity level like him.

I’ve been able to start developing some meaningful business relationships. A few have produced dividends and more will follow, once I have a couple more things in place. It’ll be interesting to see how the last few months of this year unfold.

Do you enter relationships wary of the other person’s intentions?

Are you willing to trust your ability to evaluate their behavior and take appropriate action when needed?

Can you honestly say you “give them enough rope…”

Be Great. Be Grateful!!!