I spoke with a partner the other day and he mentioned a situation about a manager who wanted to be promoted to a senior manager position. Unfortunately, no promotion was in sight. Why? Because the manager could never deliver on time and always had an excuse, which was mostly someone he worked with. It was always someone else’s fault; always someone else to blame. For that reason, no one wanted to work with him because they knew they would be thrown under the bus. Why would anyone at that level think they are senior manager material?

I think it’s sad that this young(er) professional is so unaware of how he is diminishing himself. Even though it has been mentioned to him indirectly (shame on his mentors for not being more direct!), it doesn’t sink in because facing the truth and changing is more difficult than living in ignorance and remaining the same.

Like this manager, your professional stature, regardless of your tenure, is always being noticed. Whenever you behave and act in ways that make you look weak and powerless, you diminish yourself, and that’s unbecoming of you. People should feel inspired, challenged and supported when working with you, regardless of your position. It’s true—young professionals can have a significant impact on those their senior as with those their junior.

The responsibility for yourself and your persona are yours and yours only. You must protect it at all costs. You have to know when you are susceptible to being less-than and rise above it. Don’t fall for the easy-out.

The next time you are tempted to make yourself weak and powerless by blaming others, refuse to give in. Lead with your stature and own your situation, whatever it is. Let others experience what it’s like to work with a professional who has strength and power.