We all have to take stock and measure conduct in our personal and business lives. That means being responsible and accountable every day.
I have many heroes from yesterday and present that command serious attention in my life. One of my favorites is Saint Joan of Arc. She elaborated on this subject in a clear and thoughtful manner. “I was in my thirteenth year when I heard a voice from God to help me govern my conduct. And the first time I was very much afraid.”
It is highly unlikely that we possess Saint Joan’s visions or clarity to understand what are paths in life should be and how we travel on them. No matter, conduct is tied to the strength and use of our moral compasses.
Make no mistake about it: we must answer to ourselves as we always being judged by others.
Permit me some latitude in reviewing a personal theorem. “Every accomplishment we achieve is only possible with the help from others.”
How can we achieve anything that matters, has meaning, and is purposeful without our conduct leading the way?
In my previous article I challenged everyone to break down the 168 hours we all have each week and think about the things we value and cherish the most. If you completed that exercise and ranked them, you have a baseline to measure your conduct.
What did I do well? What did I come up short on? What can I improve?
These are important questions that must be tackled with honest answers. Unfortunately, most humans are afraid to face them head on and spew disingenuous excuses.
For those of you challenged with building values based cultures and winning business teams, trust develops when others see our conduct being selfless, honest, authentic, & legal. Organizations with multi-national operations are being scrutinized and measured more than ever.
There are now over 100+ disclosed FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act) investigations in 40 countries including The Hertz Corporation, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, & Wal-Mart Stores for openers.
We can do a lot better this and can no longer afford to kick the can down the road. Conduct is everything and please step up to the plate.
Moving forward, think about conduct in the following way:
“Doing the correct things at the best times for the right reasons.”
It takes daily effort and focus to live purposeful personal and business lives.
My friends please remember this: respect, consideration, and courtesy matter a lot. Treat others fairly, decently, and equally.
Build your moral compasses carefully and always monitor them daily.
You know the battle cry: do your best each day. No one can ask more or less from any of us.
All the best/blessings, Mark
No comments yet.