Many people encounter their own failures and the failures of others over time. These stand out more, and they forget about you. Remember that you remember your own failures better than other people. Your bad reputation may be worse in your head than it is in the eyes of others. Research shows that, contrary to popular perception, when compared to other means of social evaluation, reputation matters measurably less than other factors. [1] X Research source Go off the grid and take a break from social media and online. [2] X Research source Remember, focus on the things you can control, not the things you can’t—you may be able to help change how some people think about you, and not others. [3] X Expert Source Dawn Smith-CamachoCareer & Life Coach Expert Interview. 13 May 2020.

If someone is actively spreading news of your bad reputation, talk to them first. Ask friends their opinion on the matter. Try not to be defensive.

Focusing on something negative can make it harder to overcome. Instead, try to find something positive you can do each day to turn your weakness into a strength. For instance, instead of focusing on how you need to be more motivated, make a specific plan for how you’re going to tackle something important the next day. [5] X Expert Source Dawn Smith-CamachoCareer & Life Coach Expert Interview. 13 May 2020.

Provide a calculated positive perspective. This means finding ways to reframe events and actions that give you a bad reputation. For example, sometimes people shame promiscuous behavior, while others present promiscuity as “owning your sexuality” or being “sex positive. ” Think of ways you can help people see your actions in a new light. Be aware that you may not be able to sway everyone’s opinions.

Clarify any misunderstandings. Be vocal when challenging lies.

Get your co-workers coffee, or offer to pick up a shift if they need time off. Offer your friends help, like a ride or a hand before they need to ask. Go out of your way to make sure people are feeling okay if you sense there might be something wrong.

If you’re still in school, see what sort of opportunities they can help you find. Many public schools and colleges offer different volunteer opportunities for students. Some businesses offer volunteering programs that may come with perks. Talk to your supervisor or HR department to see what sort of opportunities they provide. Give talks or lectures at a local school, organization, library or civic group on a topic you know and that would be helpful for others.

If you have a bad reputation among friends, maybe it is time to spend time with different people. Maybe your friends are encouraging habits that make people think poorly of you. At work, toxic employment environments can create unreasonable expectations of people. A work environment which encourages an unhealthy work-life balance can make it seem that a hard working, dedicated individual is lazy. Examine your workplace culture, and think about whether or not a value clash is causing your reputation to suffer. You may want to find a new job.

Seek professional help, such as a therapist or psychiatrist. [9] X Expert Source Erin Conlon, PCC, JDExecutive Life Coach Expert Interview. 31 August 2021. Find a life coach or a spiritual guide to help you find ways to make internal changes. [10] X Expert Source Erin Conlon, PCC, JDExecutive Life Coach Expert Interview. 31 August 2021.

For instance, you can become more genuinely happy by incorporating meditation, breathing exercises, and gratitude journaling into your life. [12] X Expert Source Dawn Smith-CamachoCareer & Life Coach Expert Interview. 13 May 2020.