A Reputation To Keep

Sometimes, we have to make an effort to build a reputation. To make people know us for something or respect us for something. That can be good girl/good boy or bad girl/bad boy figure depending on our goals. But sometimes, we don't have to do anything at all. Just by being ourselves, we can gain a certain reputation by being consistent in our behavior; a behavior that is perceived by people in a specific way.



I just realized I have this don't-you-dare-mess-with-me repute, enhanced by my friends in some way. I have a very strong opinion on certain issues and have always debated with passion when the issues are raised in discussion. To me, heated debate doesn't mean I'm going to strangle you if you don't agree with me. But if your opinions are incredulous, I will not hesitate to tell you so. Having said that, I'm all for agreeing to disagree at some point. There is no point prolonging a discussion that is going nowhere right.



Recently, having laid down my opinions on the table, a few people did not take it so seriously and taunt me or maybe trying to be funny with their opinions. I have no intention of rising to the bait. After reading the situation carefully, I didn't think it is worth my effort to say anything. Then another friend commented, "don't taunt a hungry tiger" or something to that effect which makes those making the incredulous comments to raise their hand as a form of surrender, not wanting to face my wrath I presumed. I'm bemused. This has happened a few times before but the effect did not really sink in. Yeah OK I'm dense not to realize it much earlier even though I've live in this world for what seems decades.



While I don't really mind having such a reputation, I also realized this can work to my advantage or against me.