Congruence and Consciousness of Self

Out of all of the Cs, I believe that congruence is the most important when acting as a change Agent. This is the one C that you, as an individual, have complete control over. In order to be fully congruent, one must first have a consciousness of self. Once someone has figured out what their values, beliefs, attitudes, and emotions are, they can then move on to congruence, acting on these elements. In my opinion, understanding yourself can be the most challenging part of being a change agent. It takes years and years to understand your own self. As you grow and live through different experiences, your values, beliefs, attitudes, and emotions may alter. As these change, you will then alter how you act in accordance with these, which is congruence. Before trying to initiate change, it is vital to understand where you stand on at least the issues at hand.

Congruence is how we most effectively convey our beliefs to others. As Emerson explained, “Your actions speak so loudly, I can hardly hear what you’re saying.” Congruence is so important, because you cannot ever make anyone else change their behaviors or beliefs, however you can control your own actions, and that is what other people really pay attention to and mind. It is our job as a change agent to be the change that we want to see.

In having a consciousness of self and acting congruently, it will help with the other Cs. In understanding yourself and presenting your thoughts through actions, it is easier to deal with controversy in a civil manner. In doing this, people will be more apt to understanding and perhaps even agreeing with your way of thinking. Even if they do not agree, they may be more open-minded and considerate if you present your ideas and values confidently and calmly. This ability to communicate effectively can aid in creating collaboration, as you and the others can work together to create a shared vision. When everyone has a shared vision, your group will more likely be committed to the cause. Depending on the nature of the change, hopefully it will demonstrate citizenship; those involved in the cause will most likely believe their effort to display this. With all of these aspects tying together, the group will most likely achieve change. Obviously, all examples will not have the Cs in this order, but most Cs will be demonstrated (positively or negatively) at some point and will work together in some way during a time of change.