“The big question about how people behave is whether they’ve got an Inner Scorecard or Outer Scorecard.” — Warren Buffett
When you’ve got the Outer Scorecard, you are at the mercy of perceptions outside of your control. How can I suck up to the boss? Does anyone above me notice that I’m putting in extra hours? How does my appearance look? Do I look like I’m successful and have made it? Have I got enough Likes on my Instagram; otherwise I need to take it down. I have to buy a new car, not a used one, or what will people think of me? If I buy a home, will my family be proud of me? My children are acting crazy, people must think I’m a bad parent!
When you’ve got the Inner Scorecard, your dialogue with yourself can be … Did I put in all my effort into this project? Am I improving, or just going through the motions. If I was the customer, would I be happy to receive this product/service? Am I being courageous, or playing it safe? Am I contributing to others? Am I selfless, in order to help others? Does my wife/husband, children, dog respect me?
“I say ‘Lookit. Would you rather be the world’s greatest lover, but have everyone think you’re the world’s worst lover? Or would you rather be the world’s worst lover but have everyone think you’re the world’s greatest lover?'” — Warren Buffett