And see me, you’ve already formed an opinion.

You took note of how I’m dressed, how I carry myself, what I’m doing in the moment and hundreds of other details that will give bias to your opinion.

You can give me the benefit of the doubt and wait until we start speaking to each other before that opinion is solidified. I can talk endlessly and amicably, but you’re listening to my actions more than my words.

However, you’re taking a mental note of the words I’m saying because the next time you walk into a room and see me—you’re going to compare whether my actions match the first impression.

My words matter less.

Every time we meet, you’re trying to figure one thing out:

Am I the real deal?

Do my actions line up with who I say I am?
Are they consistent?

If they do, we can build a relationship of trust.

If not, I better start acting in a way that lines up with my words, or speaking in a way that actually lines up with my actions.