That Old-Fashioned Moral Attitude
Life is full of choices and the decisions we make diagram the type of existence we decide to build for ourselves, our families and our businesses. Over the past couple of years, we have seen a number of corporate scandals hit American business, scandals that have embarrassed and marred the corporate structure of this country. The search for financial success is not about a ruthless pursuit of money, but rather it's about doing something you love that also has the capacity to help others. After that, the money usually comes.
Honesty is a trait that our country was founded upon. In the past, a business deal was sealed with a simple handshake or one person's promise to another. But we have created a very treacherous business world and the belief in "old-time" moral values is often seen as a weakness rather than a strength. The negative moral values epidemic has invaded most every aspect of our lives, and I believe it's time to look back and redevelop a more "old-fashioned" ethical process, which can do nothing but improve our professional and personal existence.
I learned my value system from my family and the U.S. Marine Corps. Both taught me to respect others and lead by example. I never ask the people who work with me to involve themselves in anything irregular or something that I wouldn't personally do. I obey the law of the land and take responsibility for my actions. I expect everyone in my company to do the same.
A feeling of commitment to the mission of my business and the courage to deal with the various challenges helps me develop my personal goals. Just getting up in the morning and doing the right thing for the right reason is a personal trait I treasure. I thank my family and the Marines for helping to make me who I am today.
This month's issue features a man from an era when the positive values of a man allowed him to create events of historic proportion. Gen. Chuck Yeager's thoughts about today's military and business environment will hopefully inspire you to maintain your positive attitude and an upbeat and consistent value system. He is from a period when the ability to "improvise, adapt and overcome" was part of the daily routine. A positive attitude can take you a long way, even into history just like Chuck Yeager.
Remember, the choices you make today will affect the ultimate direction of your life. Let a feeling of encouraging determination guide your way today to maintain your personal high standards of integrity.
Originally published in James Dicks: Buy*Sell*Hold magazine.