How You Show Up Matters

Let’s talk about your reputation. The one you’re building right now, moment by moment, mostly without realizing it.

Your reputation isn’t shaped by grand gestures or big, showy wins.

It’s built into the small, almost invisible interactions you encounter every day. The way you say hello, whether you look people in the eye, the tone and message of your social media posts, how you listen, the care in your words—even your body language. These tiny moments add up, silently, until one day you realize they are the basis of your reputation.

Robert Greene, author of The 48 Laws of Power, says this in Law 5: "So Much Depends on Reputation—Guard It with Your Life."

According to Greene, reputation isn’t just important; it’s a form of influence and power. A strong reputation can give you certain leverage in life. It can open doors, create trust, and set the tone in ways you may never fully see. It’s like an invisible shield—or, in some cases, a barrier.

Here’s the truth: how you show up matters.

People notice more than you think, and every interaction either strengthens or weakens how you’re seen.

And while you don’t need to obsess over every word or gesture, being mindful of your presence—how you make others feel—goes a long way. Treat people with respect, show up thoughtfully, and pay attention to the details. Your reputation depends on it.