The Visual Rope-A-Dope (7/18/14)

Once you realize that you have a stereotype, and you know what that stereotype is you can begin to overcome any obstacles that result from it using a visual rope-a-dope.

Just like our appearance can be a powerful force in the way people stereotype you it can also be equally powerful in shattering those stereotypes. If I was just trying to classify myself as a writer I might wear a sharp tailored suit. However, that isn’t the stereotype I’m trying to break. I’m trying to overcome the stereotype that I’m not an Average Joe. Based on where I grew up, some of the people I’ve met, some of the things I’ve done, the degrees I hold, and my family’s net worth some of my friend stereotype as anything but an Average Joe.

Here’s how I combat my stereotype. I don’t wear any designer brands, and the vast majority of my cloths are broken in. I will go out to eat at a casual dining chain restaurant instead of going to a high end boutique eatery. Fortunately for me I proffer all of things that go into having an Average Joe persona, which makes my job of appearing contradictory to my stereotype easier for me to accomplish.

Just like Ali used to do in the ring let them think you are going left when in fact you are headed right. Appear contradictory to your stereotype, and defeat it in the process.