Sleeve Notes
Persona...
The aspect of someone's character that is presented to, or perceived by others.
A role or character adopted by a person.
A particular type of character a person seems to have that is different from their real character.
Character...
The particular combination of qualities in someone that makes them different from others.
The mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual.
The quality of being an individual in an interesting and unusual way.
Side 1 - Some 'Persona' pluses (perceived by you?) & minuses
Protects us in the moment +
We become more attractive to others +
We go with the majority +
When It's necessary to support the situation/other people, in an unfamiliar way +
Useful for buyers and marketeers +
Used for Artificial Intelligence +
It's hard work keeping up the facade of our own creation -
Others perceive us to be someone we are not if we let the mask slip -
Behaviours are inconsistent -
Trustworthiness is questioned -
Reliability is questioned -
Credibility is questioned
We become more 'attractive' to others -
We go with the majority -
Used for Artificial Intelligence -
Side 2 - Some 'Character' plus and minus sides
Confident in our own skin +
There is only one you +
Comfortable sharing of our beliefs and values +
Principled +
Openness +
Conscientious +
Genuine +
Trusted +
Reliable +
Credible +
The minus??
The above are typically received as attractive traits. They can turn ugly though if overdone, for example, too much confidence can be seen as arrogance or being too principled could be seen as being rigid and inflexible.
Side 3 - Questions to help you think about how you show up today
Typically, how would others describe you?
How many of these descriptors come from 'Persona' and 'Character'?
When do you feel you can be yourself?
Why is that?
When you are not being true to yourself, what's happening?
What are you fearful of?
What can you do to show more of your true character, both in and outside of work?
What Impact do you want to make today?
How do you use AI?
Does it show your 'Character'/'Persona'/Both?
How will you know if you have overdone your character strengths?
What will you see and hear from others?
Side 4 - The outcomes you could see
Persona
Lack of trust
A 'Persona' coming back at you
You're not good at faking it...others see an agenda
Guilt/Frustration/Anger, for not being true to yourself
Unable to relax/Exhaustion/Poor sleep, due to keeping up the pretence
Temporary relief, then you have to do it all again tomorrow!
Character
Shared openness
Trusted
Others are attracted to you (in different ways and for different things)
Others want to listen to what you have to say
Others believe what you do and say
Others may disagree, but respect your opinion because they respect you
No hidden agenda's
Overdone character strengths can turn ugly, as described in 'Side 2'
The Download
I've changed my mind somewhat on character and persona over the years.
Ultimately as a Coach, I hope to see and hear peoples true character and not a version of themselves, however sometimes I recognise a persona can be perceived helpful in the first instance, as a form of protection, for example.
In our world of ever increasing media and AI, it's important to recognise when persona is getting in the way of creating genuine professional and personal relationships and being true to yourself.
In these cases, the choice is ours.
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