When you write, so much can be read into your words as I mentioned in my previous post. I believe in being honest and straight to the point. I have been doing a fair amount of self-reflection. Maybe too much to be honest, but that’s me.
Let me clue you in on what I mean. I have a very strong sense of right and wrong. It bothers me when I know that people are being taken advantage of, tricked, or lied to. Out of all possible human traits, being dishonest is the one that makes me see red. I have a very hard time dealing people who have shown a constant clear path towards deception. I’m not talking about the things you tell your friends when they ask you if this outfit makes them look fat…I’m talking about the full-fledged make up an entirely different version of something happening type of story. How do you look those people in the eye ever again?
It’s simple for me. I try my best to show them the way to honesty. I don’t wait until something festers, I take action immediately with these types of people because if you wait, their story spins out of control. I have counseled quite a few people recently who have caught co-workers in a web of tall tales. The most recent person was related to me. It seems that no matter your age, no matter your profession, the “game” is being played all over. I know this is true, but it doesn’t make me feel any better. In fact, I told this person she was old enough to retire and get away from this nonsense. Under no circumstance, whatsoever, would I feel good if my boss asked me to lie.
You know the old saying “If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.” I use that on a daily basis in my life and on the job. I am not afraid of losing my job. I am quite serious. The one thing that I can take with me throughout every job I will ever have is my integrity. Here is what every employee handbook should contain:
Rule #1: Use your good judgment in all situations. There will be no additional rules. ~Nordstrom’s Employee Handbook
I will end by saying that I went to a workshop recently where my co-workers had to write words down to describe me. Every word made me immensely happy, but honesty was the first word written down.
“Live so that your friends can defend you but never have to.” ~Arnold H. Glasow
