Are You(We) Walking the Talk?

The other day, I interviewed a global leader who reminded me about the overflow of information that’s happening over the last few years and raised concerns about how we deal with the situation. We also discussed the growing number of preachers across the globe.

This made me ponder about the authenticity of information and the preachers. I started putting down some thoughts that will help us reflect on the topic and make wise decisions and actions.

In today’s digital age, where information flows freely and everyone seems to be an expert, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of advice, opinions, and self-proclaimed gurus. We are bombarded with information on a daily basis, from well-meaning social media influencers to self-help books promising life-changing results.

In this age of the “infodemic,” where information overload is the new norm, it’s essential to differentiate between those who preach and those who practice what they preach.

The Rise of the Infodemic

The term “infodemic” refers to the excessive amount of information, often inaccurate or misleading, that is spread during a crisis or other significant event. In our case, the infodemic has become a part of everyday life. The internet and social media platforms have given everyone a voice, and with it, the ability to share their wisdom, opinions, and advice. Smartphones have contributed to the meteoritic rise of information which is supported by compelling apps that are making us glued to screens all the time.

The Guru Paradox

One of the consequences of the infodemic is the emergence of self-proclaimed gurus in various fields. These individuals may have gained a large following by sharing motivational quotes, life hacks, or success stories. However, it’s essential to question whether they genuinely practice what they preach.

Practice Before Preaching

The age-old adage “practice what you preach” has never been more relevant. In a world highly saturated with information, it’s very important to look for authenticity and credibility in offering advice. Here are some ways to tackle the infodemic and ensure you’re following the right guidance:

1. Critical Thinking: Don’t accept information blindly. Question the source, check for evidence, and look for real-life examples of how the advice has worked for others. Are they willing to share their clients’ information without any hesitation?

2. Seek Authenticity: Look for individuals who walk the talk. If someone is offering financial advice, have they managed their finances successfully? If it’s health and wellness guidance, do they prioritize their well-being? Request them to share their BMI or vitals information on how they have transformed themselves first.

3. Action Over Words: Pay more attention to people who emphasize taking action over just talking about change. Genuine practitioners are more interested in doing than preaching. Check the PostScript for a small story around the topic.

4. Results Matter: Consider the results that someone has achieved, not just in terms of material success but also in personal growth, happiness, and well-being. If we observe weight loss treatments of before and after pics. After pics show the results but in 99% of the cases, they are shot from a distance creating the illusion that a person has achieved remarkable results(this is a perfect example of exaggeration of results)

5. Continuous Learning: Authentic experts are continually learning and adapting. They acknowledge that knowledge is ever-evolving and are open to new ideas and perspectives. They are transparent, vulnerable, and not always boasting about themselves.

In conclusion, it’s crucial to filter out the noise and focus on those who practice what they preach. Authenticity and credibility should be the guiding principles when seeking guidance and inspiration.

Remember that actions speak louder than words, and those who truly walk the talk are the ones worth following in our information-cluttered world.

Thanks for reading, let me know your thoughts and feedback on the post.

If you have liked it, please share it with your friends and colleagues.

Also, if you have come across a genuine preacher who practices something before asking others to follow him/her. Please tag their name in the comments section.

PS:

Ravi and Suresh, who had grown up together in the same village. Both were known for their intelligence and kind hearts.

As they reached adulthood, they decided to embark on different paths. Ravi chose to become a preacher, delivering sermons on kindness, honesty, and compassion to the villagers. He was eloquent and persuasive, and his speeches drew large crowds.

On the other hand, Suresh decided to embody the teachings without uttering a word. He quietly practiced kindness, honesty, and compassion in every aspect of his life. He helped the needy, cared for the sick, and was a source of comfort to those in distress.

Years passed, and the villagers began to notice something remarkable. While Ravi’s sermons were inspiring, his actions did not always align with his words. He was often seen engaging in questionable behavior and sometimes even lacked patience and kindness.

In contrast, Suresh, who had never preached a word, was universally admired and respected. His actions spoke volumes, and his character shone brightly.

People naturally gravitated toward him, seeking his guidance and wisdom.

Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.