A Shoe and a Personality

Although it may look weird for a person to attach feelings and ascriptions to material things, it is no doubt that the same things define our identities and personalities. The shoes we wear, the clothes we own, and the suits we ‘rock’ when going to official functions, among other things, hold a special place in our hearts. Every material possession defines us and if not so, shows the beliefs or perspectives that we hold in this dear life. I hold much relevance and respect to the shoes I own and one in particular is this black leather shoe I have had since my GAP year. Transitioning into the real-world and corporate world taught me the essence of self-presentation and how the image we form and create around others define the life we live, include opportunities therein. This is a shoe I have had since 2015 and only put on during special occasions. It represents everything about me; my personality, seriousness, meticulous, organization, sharpness, courage, composure, and confidence. All these personal attributes are centered on material possession, a shoe as an object that I hold with high regard. In so doing, it has defined by personality and a career path or yearning of a determined person who can lead others and create a good image for my corporation. I am that courageous, bold, confident, sharp, comfortable, and a serious individual just like my shoe.

I reminisce a lot about the first time I had this shoe while going for a GAP placement. This was a gift from my father who at the time, always complained about my casual look and lack of what he called ‘professional image’. At that time, I had no idea what he meant by ‘professional image’. My first day at work was the turning point because unlike other newcomers, the supervisor held me with high regard, was amazed and proud of my official presentation. Unknown to me, this was all about the shoes, how they appeared comfort, painted an image of a serious, professional, courageous, organized, and meticulous personality. It came to pass but with time, I realized that how it had turned out to be my habit of being presentation, wearing a professional look, looking calm, composed, and serious just like my shoe. Whenever I think of looking presentation, I start with my shoes since they will give me that confidence and composure to think myself so.

My aim is not to bore you with how nice or appealing my ‘shoe game is’, but rather, use this as an illustration of how this has shaped me, including career goals. I have realized that I like creating an impression, showing courage, determination, composure, and confidence. All of these attributes are of a leader. I like to lead, set an example, be that role model, inspire people, sow determination in everything I do, and be calm when facing uncertain situations. I use this shoe story to explain a personality of an individual, whose career ascription is about being a leader someday, mentoring others, supporting people’s goals, motivating and inspiring them to pursue both career and professional goals. In conclusion, I believe that image is everything because we live in a business world. We should create the best image through our material possessions and look presentable. This is preparing us for the real-world context of becoming the future world leaders, business leaders, community leaders, national leaders, and role models in society. Yet, all begins with self-representation. You become the image you create through what you wear. This is why my shoe is ever my inspiration to be a composed, confident, courageous, presentation, professional, and an admirable person.