We hear the word "ideal" a lot; people talk about the "ideal circumstances", an "ideal world", the "ideal life". I hear it when people are talking about work - the "ideal job", the "ideal client", an "ideal outcome" -- meaning that given the option, this is what would be the perfect, best of all possibilities.
While it would be very nice to have all of the stars align to create perfection, it very rarely happens. What we are faced with is reality - the quirks, the twists, the less than ideal circumstance - that can come out of nowhere and leave us scratching our heads, gasping for breath, smiling in relief, and celebrating in success.
How you apply your knowledge, your experience, your courtesy and good manners to the less than perfect - the non-ideal - situations and circumstances you find yourself in is what has impact.
Did someone's comment or apparent criticism catch you off guard? You can lash back in anger or you can take the high road; let that person be judged on his/her actions, and you on yours. Have you found yourself somewhere that you feel awkward and out of place? You may feel that way, but how do you appear? Keep in mind someone is probably watching you, and confident, approachable and friendly is always a good look.
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