"Real values have to cost something. If they don’t, they’re just marketing." Thanks for posting this. In today's volatile and uncertain times, the test of leadership falls on each one of us. We are all partners in co-creating the future.
Thanks for this excellent summary. At the same time, I'm disappointed by this summarizing question: "So the question is often whether you want to go for the quick win or the sustainable win?"
For me, the question is "whether you want to follow ethical principles and to be known for your ethical actions". Your values are only important if they stand for some principles; the "type" of win should not be a measure of the company's worth or merit, even though it may impact their revenue for the short term. As you yourself said, "Real values have to cost something."
Following an ethical approach exemplifies what you wrote, "Leadership is not defined in times of comfort; it is revealed when doing the right thing and following your values comes with a cost." - so I was surprised by your summarizing question.
I recently stood by my values, and it was a hard decision to come by. I saw a gap a company faced, and pitched a solution (and a role). After several conversations, that company created the role but opened up hiring to all interested persons. I'd love you feedback on the Substack that tells all about it: https://keeponlearningwithlaura.substack.com/p/when-the-role-you-pitch-becomes-real
I might go a step farther and suggest that even if one loses in the longer term, values still count. Isn't that the real test of principl,es?
Bullies depend on others to fold rather than fight back. I have watched in horror how so many have capitulated.
Thank you for writing about this. It is educational, and a GREAT reminder to uphold our values. Excellent piece!
I am remembering what we learn from King David : He will not offer to God anything that does not cost him .
Well said, Robert. Well said.
"Real values have to cost something. If they don’t, they’re just marketing." Thanks for posting this. In today's volatile and uncertain times, the test of leadership falls on each one of us. We are all partners in co-creating the future.
Thankyou. As a Canadian I am often dispirited by the dilemma facing American firms. There was encouraging news in your essay today.
hi Robert,
Thanks for this excellent summary. At the same time, I'm disappointed by this summarizing question: "So the question is often whether you want to go for the quick win or the sustainable win?"
For me, the question is "whether you want to follow ethical principles and to be known for your ethical actions". Your values are only important if they stand for some principles; the "type" of win should not be a measure of the company's worth or merit, even though it may impact their revenue for the short term. As you yourself said, "Real values have to cost something."
Following an ethical approach exemplifies what you wrote, "Leadership is not defined in times of comfort; it is revealed when doing the right thing and following your values comes with a cost." - so I was surprised by your summarizing question.
Solid article, couldn't of said it better myself. thanks for sharing!
I recently stood by my values, and it was a hard decision to come by. I saw a gap a company faced, and pitched a solution (and a role). After several conversations, that company created the role but opened up hiring to all interested persons. I'd love you feedback on the Substack that tells all about it: https://keeponlearningwithlaura.substack.com/p/when-the-role-you-pitch-becomes-real