In my previous post, we examined the need to have a relationship to our purpose. I wrote about our responsibility to be willing to go beyond the comforts of convenience to effect change.
In a time when motives and intentions can appear to be minuscule and irrelevant, we need change agents who will be willing to sacrifice the option of greed in the name of gain, and choose ethics and morals, even if it may mean lesser gain and greater competition.
In the beginning of Dale Partridge’s People Over Profit, he paints a clear picture of the early days of many of America’s most recognizable companies. He describes this time period as the Honest Era. Many of the institutions he writes about began as organizations built upon highly esteemed values and a focus on great customer service. As times have changed, some have opted for more opportunities for gain rather than rather than focusing on the principles that made these early companies great.
As individuals in pursuit of our own purposes, it is essential that we not adopt the same course of actions as those who have opted for profit over purpose. It can be very tempting to pursue a route that leads to poor quality and high margins. The world needs more people who want to make sure they have a lasting effect on the world. There is nothing wrong with obtaining personal possessions. However, we must not forget to be generous in nature. Rather, we must take on the mindset that we will be people of character and integrity.
Here are ten short key points to remember:
- Dare to be different.
- Purpose trumps profit.
- Never say, “We can’t do that.”
- Don’t just do good … be good.
- Values outlast get-rich-quick schemes.
- Manage relationships with respect and fidelity.
- Keep customer service first … regardless of the cost.
- Treat your relationships how you want to be treated.
- Resolve to be a person of character rather than focusing solely on profit.
- If you decide to cut corners, expect to have your bottom line cut short.
Another great post, Dewitt. Point #9 says a lot – Resolve to be a person of character rather than focusing solely on profit.
Thanks Adam. It can be easy to fall prey in this area. It’s helpful to stay surrounded by people who share the same values.
“Don’t just do good … be good.”
This is a tough one, because it involves character and all-important motive. It is very possible to “do good” with the wrong motives. People may still receive necessary help, but it rots at the core of the person of organization who “does good” without “being good.” Often, doing good is in vogue, or not doing good reflects negatively on one’s self, due to pressure from competitors who are doing good; but if there is not a baseline of character and conviction behind it, doing good will become expendable down the line when the pressure is off.
Good reminders to us all, Dewitt.
Thanks Erik!