There are many that would call me a hypocrite, but let me explain! It all depends upon your definition of hypocrisy. Although many probably haven't thought about it much, but their operational view on hypocrisy is: to act out or speak in a way that is contrary to your feelings. In other words, you are only "true" when your outward actions or speech lines up with your emotions. So - by that definition (that is very common in our "tolerant" society,) I AM GUILTY.

I AM A HYPOCRITE. I act and speak contrary to what my emotions would dictate on a regular basis - no make that every day!

*a*There are times I don't "feel" like being nice to someone. I do it anyway.

*b*There are times I feel like getting even, but I don't.

*c*There are times I don't feel like working and growing my business, but I do it anyway.

My working definition of hypocrisy for me is: to go against what you have chosen and professed to believe in.

*a*I believe in being kind to people - regardless of how I feel.

*b*I believe that revenge is in the Lord's hands.

*c*I believe hard work and discipline is part of success.

So, by God's grace, even though I do fail at times, I try to live and act in a way that lines up with my professed belief systems.

Hypocrisy for me is going against my values, not my emotions.

This is a huge issue in emotional intelligence and success. Many quit at things because their emotions change, regardless of the commitments or promises they made. Our "tolerant" society allows destructive actions by individuals go unchecked in part because we think it would be hypocritical for an individual to deny their strong emotions.

Emotions are a powerful aspect of being human. When the definition of hypocrisy gets changed, or even 'tweeked" - it can lead to disaster! So - the next time you "feel" lust - don't. The next time you feel envy - don't. The next time you feel greed - don't. The next time you feel anger - don't. Don't what? Don't speak or act out based on the impulse of that emotion!

Join me in the ranks of the "hypocrites" who go against their emotions and try to do what lines up with your values, and the world will be a better place.

Coach Curt