Conversely, if you want people to be able to rely on you, it is best to be reliable. Sounds simple, yet I’m not sure if we all have the same definition of reliable.
If people have to wonder if you’ll follow through don’t be surprised when you’re not invited to join the club. How often do last-minute circumstances prevent you from keeping obligations? Being sick or late or (god forbid) a no-show should be rare. If you think these things are rare but people aren’t worried when it happens, then it’s not rare; it’s your mode of operation.
Doing too much because you’re so damn reliable? That’s amazing and don’t take my tongue-in-cheek headline seriously; learn to say no. Matter of fact, saying no is how we ensure we’re staying reliable for the things we say yes to. We all have the same amount of time in the day and everything is a trade-off. Being too busy isn’t an excuse or a badge of honor it’s simply telling someone that other things in your life are more important. Let people know that before committing. Saying no to a commitment you’ll be hard-pressed to keep ensures your integrity and reputation stay intact.
