Today many companies talk about ‘corporate social responsibility & business ethics’, it has become fashion and a ‘buzz word’. In my opinion, if it starts with an individual, then only it can be implemented at corporate level.
Integrity is a standard of personal morality and ethics, is not relative to the situation you happen to find yourself in and doesn’t sell out to convenience. Sadly, most people continue to be taken in by big talks, fake projections of popularity, flashy or bizarre looks, and expensive possessions. They move through most of their life convinced that – the externals are what count, and are thus doomed to live shallow lives. Men and women who rely on their looks or status to feel good about themselves inevitably do everything they can to enhance the impression they make – and do correspondingly little to develop their inner value and personal growth. The paradox is that the people who try hardest to impress are often the least impressive. Puffing to appear powerful is an attempt to hide insecurity.
Integrity that strengthens an inner value system is the real human bottom line. Commitment to a life of integrity in every situation demonstrates that your word is more valuable than a surety bond. It means you don’t base your decisions on being politically correct. You do what’s right, not fashionable. You know that truth is absolute, not a device for manipulating others. And you win in the long run, when the stakes are highest.
I quote from a book ‘Commandment for Leadership’ – “You shall conduct yourself in such a manner as to set an example worthy of imitation by your children and subordinates.” In simpler terms, if they shouldn’t be doing it, neither should you. It’s very important for leaders to understand that – ‘what you are’ speaks louder than ‘what you say’.” It is even more true that if what you are matches what you say, your life will speak forcefully indeed.
It’s hardly a secret that learning ethical standards begins at home. A child’s first inkling of a sense of right and wrong come from every signals received long before he or she reaches the age of rational thought about morality. Remember, children learn by example – Don’t tell me how to live. Show me by your actions. You’re my role models.
