I was reminded today of how important it is to be true to yourself. A coworker viewed a situation differently from me. At that moment, I was presented with an opportunity. I could take offense. I could line up my beliefs with theirs. I could reflect on the situation and keep moving forward. 

Just because someone has a different opinion or different perspective, we can respectfully hear each other’s thoughts and still get along. There was no need for me to get upset, try to persuade them to join my side or even rally others against how that person felt. In a day when everyone has an opinion about everything, it’s wise to know where you stand, listen to others’ perspectives and decide where you will continue to stand. But all of this can be done in a peaceful and respectful way. 

Be true to you but do it with compassion. How much peace could we bring to the world if we all could respectfully and peacefully listen to others without casting judgment? 

~Coletta Jones Patterson

Coletta is an author, speaker, life coach and business executive who is passionate about helping others get unstuck. She hosts a weekly beyond stuck podcast and has written seven inspirational books. Connect with Coletta at info@moveu4ward.com.