"promoting ethics through personal responsibility"

SWiM™ Audio Series

 

1. On Being Two-Faced
©2006, About Purpose, Inc.
When you hear the phrase “two-faced,” what comes to mind? Most of us would not like to be labeled with it. But many of us are more two-faced than we’d like to admit. We act differently at work than we do at home. We say and do things with our friends we would never do with our parents or kids. We behave in private in a way we’d never think of doing in public. We weren’t meant to live that way. It creates a kind of moral dichotomy that can only result in a feeling of disease. Take a stand. Decide what you really believe and then live that way.  Repeat this: Starting with me, two-faced will only describe a kind of tape. I will live my values in every part of my life.

 

2. On Wasting Resources
©2006, About Purpose, Inc.
Waste. Definitely not a welcome word in most businesses. Most of us are very careful to reduce waste and to avoid wasting time, energy, and other resources. But how many of us are aware of wasting our influence? As we are successful in our jobs, it gives us influence among our fellow employees, customers, etc. How are you using your influence? Purely for your own gain? Or are you using the favor you’ve found with others to make a difference? Repeat this: Starting with me, good favor will be seen as a valuable resource. I will use whatever influence I have to make a difference in my workplace, my neighborhood, and my community.

 

3. On The Blessings of Receiving
©2006, About Purpose, Inc.
Common wisdom says, "It's better to give than to receive." I agree, but receiving can be a blessing to you and all those around you. Most of us are not very good at receiving, and so we rob others of the joy of giving. Look around and note how others give of themselves. At work, maybe it's a little thing like always cleaning up in the morning, or anticipating your needs before you have to ask. Now, simply say “thank you.” Make it clear that you are blessed by them. Repeat this: Starting with me, receiving will be just as blessed as giving. I will let others feel valuable by accepting their gifts.

 

4. On Taking Responsibility
©2006, About Purpose, Inc.
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 take responsibility for my own actions.