Why wear a mask when I am the best at being me. Day in and day out, I interact with family, friends, neighbors, and strangers. Do they all perceive/receive me in the same manner depends on my approach. To get to the bottom of this, I must identify the underlying thoughts and motivations that guide my behavior. I participated in a human assessment survey known as Life Styles Inventory (LSI). Human Synergistics (2007), the Life Styles Inventory (LSI) is based around the Human Synergistics Circumplex, describing constructive, passive/defensive and aggressive/defensive behaviors.

The personal LSI profile dictates that I exemplify a constructive style of behavior. Attributes of a constructive style are Achievement, Self-Actualization, Humanistic-Encouraging, and Affiliative. My primary style is Humanistic-Encouraging, LSI (2007), it reflects an interest in the growth and development of people, a high positive regard for them and sensitivity to their needs. People high in this style devote energy to coaching and counseling others, are thoughtful and considerate and provide people with support and encouragement. My backup is Affiliative, LSI (2007) it reflects an interest in developing and sustaining pleasant relationships. People high in this style share their thoughts and feelings, are friendly and cooperative and make others feel a part of things. This is truly accurate. They are equally manifested in my life. No matter the place nor time, I make the needs of others a priority. I am a firm believer of treating others as you want to be treated. My Affiliative backup style is also limiting for my kindness is at times taken for weakness. This happens more at home more than in the workplace. My work past and present work history validates my LSI profile.

Exemplifying this constructive style has benefited me in the workplace. In most companies, you have to work your way to the top. Upon graduation, I was employed as a sales associate for five months, then promoted to cash rep., two months later promoted to part-time manager, three months later promoted to Co- Manager, and a year in a half later promoted to Store Manager within the same company. I did not doubt myself; yet, I was impressed with my accomplishments. I came in to the company and passed several employees who held full-time sale associate positions for over five years. It was my Humanistic- Encouraging and Affiliative style that caused my elevation. I was highly effective as a manager on each level. This motivated me. Schermerhorn (2010), the more control I had allowed me to bring out the best in my team. The best thing I could of done was stress “there is no I in team”. As a manager I delegated and participated in the task. My team and I, were more like a family [there are days when more hours are spent at work then home]. Having a bad day is understandable; yet, I explain its inexcusable preferably demonstrate it in the workplace.

Wisdom is the principal thing, Proverbs 4:7. Life experiences have caused me to develop my unique personal style. There are numerous factors that continue to mold my personal style. They are family, church affiliation, schooling, work experience, as well as traveling to different states and countries. Each encounter with another human being allows me to see myself from different views. Therefore, allowing me to revamp my style accordingly. My study abroad experience in Nairobi, Kenya has had a huge impact on my style. There I witnessed many like myself, who expressed the need for a humanistic approach when dealing with any and every situation. It was amazing, I actually had time each day to tackle every situation. How? Because I was never alone. There was always someone willing to listen, encourage, and show their appreciation. This individuals had so much going on in their lives and could break down at any moment; yet, were there when I needed them. It has aided me in being more approachable, which is imperative for a leader. As I continue to practice my faith, I will not close my eyes to one asking or plainly in need of help. Still, I will not compromise my integrity for another individual or society. Constructive styles are beneficial for all individuals. Whether in the home or the workplace person style is imperative. I am defined by my Humanistic- Encouraging and Affiliative ways. I am pleased with the results of the LSI. I intend to refer to the results in making future decisions. As of today, I will consider implementing a strategy to reduce the limitations associated with my Affiliative style. As the weeks follow, I plan on incorporating all new found and reviewing knowledge that will help me obtain change.