“The big question about how people behave is whether they’ve got an Inner Scorecard or an Outer Scorecard. It helps if you can be satisfied with an Inner Scorecard.” — Warren Buffett
Consider the concept of “inner scorecards” versus “outer scorecards” in terms of human behavior and success. The outer scorecard measures what others think of us: Titles, salaries, public recognition, social media metrics. Conversely, the inner scorecard measures what we think of ourselves: Our values, integrity, personal growth, and authentic achievements.
Most of us live somewhere between these two scorecards, but the balance matters enormously. When we’re primarily driven by external validation, we become reactive, inconsistent, and ultimately unfulfilled. We chase trends, compromise our values for approval, and measure our worth by others’ opinions.
Those who focus on their inner scorecard make decisions based on their values and long-term vision rather than immediate external rewards. They’re more authentic in relationships because they’re not constantly performing for an audience. They’re more resilient because their self-worth isn’t dependent on others’ approval.
This doesn’t mean ignoring feedback or external results; they matter. But it means using them as data points rather than letting them define us. It means asking “What do I think of this decision?” before asking “What will others think?”
In professional relationships, people with strong inner scorecards are magnetic. They’re consistent, authentic, and principled. They don’t shift their personality based on who’s in the room. They build trust because you know what to expect from them.
Developing a strong inner scorecard is ongoing work. It requires regular self-reflection, clear values, and the courage to act on them even when it’s uncomfortable. But the payoff, in terms of satisfaction, relationships, and sustainable success, is immeasurable.
What does your inner scorecard say about your recent decisions? Are you living up to your own standards, or are you too focused on the external scoreboard?
Happy Networking!
P.S. – Wishing a very, very Happy 78th Birthday to my amazing father, Max. Indeed, he is a magnetic person, whose consistent, authentic, and principled behavior speaks volumes about the strength of his inner scorecard. I love you, Daddy Max!