Person-ality & Reputation
- Michele Aikens
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
In general, the "-ality" suffix is used to extract, from some "thing", the characteristic nature of that "thing". (English.stackexchange)
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it [b]robbery to be equal with God, 7 but [c]made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, andcoming in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:5-7, NKJV
In my work, the conversations I have often turn to how a leader or individual can create a better image or reputation in their workplace. These conversations are necessary, because how one shows up in a situation will determine perceptions (accurate or not) about their leadership and personality. If a leader gains a reputation of being unpredictable or ill-equipped in stressful times, it could hinder their ability to build trust among their team(s).
But what happens when we spend so much time developing a "reputation" for being a certain way, that we neglect the values and character that make up the person we endeavor to be? I have always been intrigued by the above passage in Philippians, because the passage contrasts the position and character of Jesus with his desire to not make a reputation for Himself.
How often have we attributed aspects of someone's behavior to their person-ality. I have been called, "funny-acting" by some of my friends, because I don't jump headlong into relationships without getting to know people. (By the way, I'm not the least bit bothered by that description of me.). It could be said that is part of my person-ality. The suffix 'ality' takes a characteristic from the root word, in this case "person." What characteristics -- what is the 'ality' that describes you?
We are all persons, but how we choose to live out this personhood matters, not just to the reputation you cultivate, but in the way you live out what is most important to you. In the above passage we see three aspects of Jesus' personality, that we can also apply to our own lives:
1. Position. Jesus had a position where He could have required automatic and unconditional worship and obedience from everyone. Yet, He emptied Himself of the privileges of that position. Your position will afford you some privileges, but do you value the privilege of position more than the character necessary to support that position?
2. Practice. Can you take on the practice of serving? After emptying Himself of the privilege that came with His position, scripture says he took the form of a servant. This is a whole identity change. While privilege and position tell us what is owed to us, the practice of servanthood seeks to build others. For some the practice of serving will directly confront their ideas about who they are.
3. Presentation: Are you able to put the privileges of your position aside, discover how to serve others, and take the extra step of understanding who you're serving? The people we serve have stories that need to be heard and narratives from past leaders. While many of us desire to serve others, can you be bothered to listen to them, understand their struggles, identify and provoke them higher when necessary? Having a reputation that must be maintained can interfere with true servanthood if you are not careful.
What characteristics mark your personhood? Does your carefully curated "reputation precede you?" Are you known for seeking the highest position? Can you identify with those you desire to lead? I ask if you are willing to accept the following challenge: To show up in your team not as one entitled to privileges, but as one who understands the value of serving and releasing the best in others.
You are loved,
Michele
Michele Aikens is a minister, and leadership and team coach. You can connect with her here:
And just for a proper ending, here's a clip of one of my favorite movie bosses. "That's all".
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