On Corporate Giving

Corporate giving is not just for big companies. Employees and small business owners can give – and receive a great deal in return. Why give? It adds a deeper sense of meaning to your life. It improves your morale. And it builds a sense of camaraderie and caring with and for others. How should you give? It can be in the form of one-time gifts, or ongoing support. Through writing a check, or volunteering time or your talents, services or products. Companies can benefit greatly by helping their employees give. Don’t wait around for someone to ask you. Repeat this: Starting with me, giving will become the norm, not the exception. I will start today, no matter how small. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Rules

Rules. We all have to live by them. But how many of us take responsibility for enforcing the good ones and changing the ineffective ones? Most of us would rather complain. Here’s four words for you. It’s all about purpose. Think carefully about the reason a rule is in place. Then ask if it accomplishes the purpose. If it does, obey it and encourage others to do the same. If it doesn’t, go to someone with authority for the rule, and ask them to talk it over with you. Respectfully suggest a change that would make it more effective. Repeat this: Starting with me, rules will be seen as helpful, not harmful. I will obey all the rules while trying to improve the ineffective ones. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Taking Responsibility

If there’s one thing we are learning from the corporate debacles of late, it’s that no one likes a whiner. When you make a mistake, stand up and take responsibility. Ethically and morally, taking responsibility is the high ground. It moves you quickly past the negative consequences of the public spotlight. It will very likely be cheaper in the long run. It models the kind of behavior you expect from your coworkers and bosses. And it eliminates shame and blame from your corporate culture. You’re going to make mistakes. It’s how quickly and thoroughly you take responsibility that defines your character. Repeat this: Starting with me, responsibility will not be something to be ducked. I will let take responsibility for my own actions. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.