Hello business leader,
The most admired business leaders continually demonstrate the highest level of ethical behavior in both words and actions. Leaders talk about ethical performance, leaders speak out when things seem to be headed the wrong way and leaders encourage the highest standards of ethical behavior from everyone on the team.
We all face ethical dilemmas in life – I have certainly faced my fair share. Our decisions should always be within the law and follow the basic rules set forth by business and our organizations. But it is not just about following the rules and obeying the law – it is about doing what is really right. Even when you think no one is watching. You must feel comfortable with each of your decisions.
Integrity is defined as adherence to moral and ethical principles, soundness of moral character, and honesty. Whether you are leading a team, or raising a family, your personal integrity ultimately defines who you are, and what you stand for.
The recent financial events impact virtually all of us in both our professional and personal lives. Much of the meltdown can be attributed to a lack of common sense coupled with ethical lapses. Certainly, no one wanted to wind up in the mess we find ourselves in today. Let’s hope we are now on the road to recovery.
The purpose of this letter is to remind us all about the importance of personal integrity in all we do no matter the outside influences. It is also to remind you that our capitalist economic system is the world’s greatest wealth generator and has a historic and natural process of boom and bust cycles. We will emerge from this cycle, like all others, stronger than ever.
