Professionalism in Our Profession: A Closer Look

Often, I find myself questioning the essence of professional behavior within a particular profession. Despite the fact that others around us show respect and gratitude to their clients, does this professional demeanor develop automatically, or is it something we actively learn and cultivate?

Developing Professionalism: An Intrinsic Habit

In my view, the professional behavior we exhibit is often shaped by our subconscious. Once we join a profession, our minds begin to internalize certain norms and standards that form the basis of this behavior. This inherent development is a natural consequence of our professional journey, honed through the daily interactions, experiences, and observations.

Surrounding Influence and Aspirational Behavior

However, there's another layer to this development: the significant influence of our surroundings. Whether we observe our colleagues, their interactions, and their behavior can greatly shape how we conduct ourselves in our professional capacities. Often, we gravitate towards individuals who have succeeded in our field, emulating their strategies, approaches, and attitudes. Yet, an important consideration is why we tend to overlook and not emulate the successes of others who are still striving to make an impact.

Identifying and Addressing Deficiencies

To truly excel and close the gap in our professional development, we should aim to identify the deficiencies in others and use this insight to inform our own strategies. Learning from the mistakes and shortcomings of our peers can help us grow and refine our skills. By acknowledging and addressing these issues, we can better understand the challenges and ultimately develop more effective solutions.

Nurturing Professional Growth

Giving credit where credit is due, and recognizing the efforts of those around us who are striving, but perhaps not yet achieving the same level of success, can foster a more collaborative and supportive environment. Together with the guidance and expertise of more experienced professionals, we can find solutions that benefit everyone, including those at the beginner stage.

Conclusion

Professionalism is not just about meeting the expectations of others; it's about internalizing and embodying the values that drive our success. By actively seeking out the gaps in others and learning from their experiences, we can enhance our own professional development and contribute positively to our field.

Key Takeaways

1. Professional behavior is both automatic and learned.

2. Surrounding influence plays a significant role in shaping our professional demeanor.

3. Identifying and addressing deficiencies in others can lead to personal and professional growth.