Gentle is Giant

I feel compelled to bring something up as it is an issue of my character...

People would describe me as a nice person and one person recently used the word "gentle". In the context that it was used, it was seen as a bit of a weakness because it was assumed that if I'm gentle then I can't be strong. I beg to differ.

The last few weeks have been a bit of a strain and my overall learning about being compassionate pops up yet again. I believe the only kind of person that would see being gentle as a huge weakness to overcome is one who knows nothing about being gentle.

To me, being kind, keeping others in mind when actions will affect them, and respecting people is of the utmost importance. No matter how tight the schedule is, how much a deadline is looming, or how much you may be at odds with someone, I refuse to abuse people to the point of alienating them - if anything, I'm gonna be down in the trenches with them trying to work it all out.

At the end of the day you have to ask yourself whether you would rather get the job done at any cost or build a group of people who are willing to work hard in these tough situations out of respect and a sense of being part of a team - I choose people. And who do you think produces the better work?

I am gentle but I don't see it as a weakness. Now, more than ever, I see it as not only a strength but a necessity. But you know what, I would rather someone underestimate me and think I'm weak rather than being weak. And if you think I'm not strong, challenge me and I will show you otherwise. I'll be honest - some people have tried to push me around a little because I'm nice. I don't retaliate but try to work with the situation first (the opposite of what these people do), so they may try to push a little more. Push enough and I will take action - no one deserves poor treatment and I will be nice to myself by letting you know what's what.

This industry will test your limits. Can you be opinionated yet tactful, cultivate ideas yet allow them to be molded by others, work hard yet keep a positive attitude...

I've just had so many experiences in one week that have shown me what I want to continue to be, and that's myself. I refuse to stop being nice.