Swim Starting with Me

2011-09-29T09:32:00.001-05:00

On the Ethics of "The Whole Enchilada"

For the last several months we have been working on Market 70 - an intentional, integrated approach to moving from being merely a "Christian organization" to being transformational in one's sphere of influence. Of course, ethics is one of the topics on the agenda and we are building it into a module called "Excellence in Process." As in teaching anything, we, ourselves continue to learn.

What are we learning? Ethics is clearly NOT a separate process to be dealt with in an organization. Rather, it is part of the whole. It touches and is touched by every other thing we do. This isn't really news to anyone who's familiar with ethics, but it does affect how we approach building or evolving our organizations. Unless we lead with ethics in mind, every other process will eventually fall short of its full potential contribution to the whole. Ethics is the basis for quality, relationships, viability, transparency, strategy, etc.

Our linear way of thinking places "ethics" in a list of things to deal with, but in actuality, ethics drives our entire organization. Being consciously "ethical" is the key to excellence throughout "the whole enchilada."

2010-12-08T15:44:00.000-06:00

On the Ethics of Being Transparent - post WikiLeaks

My last two Tweets (DailyConscience) raised some questions about the ethics around WikiLeaks and all the players involved in and spotlighted by them. I just ran across this article, though, in Unashamedly Ethical that brings out yet a more important and lasting principle.

By the way, go to UnashamedlyEthical.com and consider signing the pledge. It's more than a fad or a concept, it is a challenge to fundamentally change the way business is conducted.

2010-11-05T13:38:00.001-05:00

On the Ethics of Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

I recently wrote on the ethics of eliminating systemic poverty and the business case for doing so. This week I faced the challenge of living out my own words. My wife and I had an opportunity to offer a spare bedroom to a guy who's out of job and out of a place to live. While we readily agreed to do so, we became aware of our own values clashes. Yes, we want to give, but do we really want someone in our house everyday? Yes, we want to help him out, but do we really want to risk letting someone use our car while we're away? Yes, we want to help him get a job, but do we really want someone using our computer when we're not here?

This points out the difference between ethics and values. Values are what we hold as important. Ethics relate to the decisions we make based on our values. Values clashes happen within us all the time. Our behavioral response to those clashes reveal which values we hold to be most important. While we're not proud of the some of the selfish values we hold, we are relieved that the decisions we made are based on a set of values we can be proud of.

2010-10-19T11:16:00.001-05:00

On the Ethics (and Self Interest) of Eliminating Poverty

Eliminating poverty is not just for politicians and social workers anymore. Read why and how business can get involved - both for the common good, as well as our own self interest.

Read HTML version: http://is.gd/g8jLT- [open in new window]
Listen to MP3 version: http://is.gd/g8jPW- [open in new window]

2010-09-15T14:33:00.000-05:00

On the Aftermath of a Ponzi Scheme

Tom Petters was convicted this year of engineering a large Ponzi scheme involving $3.5 billion. Now, a court appointed trustee is trying to recapture as much money as possible to return to the investors. One move made by the trustee creates an ethical dilemma. He has asked employees of Petters Group Worldwide to return bonuses they were paid several years ago. These bonuses range from $5000 to over $2 million and reportedly total some $58 million.

So, here's the ethical question. If you were one of those 70-100 people who received letters from the court appointed trustee asking you to voluntarily return the bonuses, would you?

When I ask myself that question I came up with several other questions that would shape my decision, and I think they make up a good framework for examining the ethics of any actions in any situation.

Was I knowingly involved in something illegal/unethical? (Here's a couple of hints:)
Was my action something I would be embarrassed to make public?
Did I ignore or dismiss any warnings, either internally or from others?
Was my action harmful in any way to others?
If so, was the harm I caused necessary to avoid a greater harm?
Does remediation alleviate the harm caused?
Does remediation cause a greater harm?

These questions address some of the objections I heard when asking colleagues about this news story http://is.gd/fbU4X. Issues like the role an employee may or may not have played; the current economic situation of the employee; whether an employee “should” have been able to sense that something was wrong; whether an employee was an executive or a “soldier.”

So, what would you answer?

Now, more importantly, will you apply questions like those above to your current actions? The last two questions are clearly those that can only be asked after the fact, but the others can be used to gauge present situations. The value of an ethical dilemma is not the intellectual exercise I just posed, but rather the opportunity to clarify our own values and to shape our own behavior based on those values.

2010-07-19T14:49:00.000-05:00

On Integrity in Business

When asked what value one holds highest in business, must business people will answer, "Integrity." Time for a reality check - what does "integrity" really mean in your business? How does it play out in behavioral terms?

There's the obvious - we don't steal or cheat. Nice platitudes, but what does that look like in real time business relationships?

Are you habitually late for meetings? Do you take home company office supplies? Do you take a quick side trip with the company truck? Do you run an errand on company time? In all these examples, you are stealing.

Do you employ people as independent contractors who cannot pass the criteria set by the Wage and Hour people? Do you, as a business owner take unstructured benefits from the company without paying taxes? Do you reverse-engineer patent protected equipment or parts and then make and use them for yourself? Do you install more than one copy of licensed software on your computer? In all these examples, you are stealing.

"No, no," you say, " I mean we treat people with integrity." Really? Do you dodge phone calls from people? Do you extend out the payment time rather than seek funding from the bank? Do you negotiate terms with vendors that you would not be willing to take if you were them? Do you wink at star performers' occasional bending of the rules while holding other employees to the letter of the law? Do you have an unwritten, unspoken expectation that the company comes before family? Are you sloppy in your record keeping, your communications, your own or your building and equipment appearance? In all these examples, you are demonstrating a lack of integrity.

Next time someone asks you about your values, stop and think about whether you have truly defined what they are IN PRACTICE. Ethics is about behaving according to principles and beliefs. What do your actions say about your values?

2010-06-25T12:20:00.001-05:00

On the Ethics of Bosses' Pay in Hard Times

It is very common practice during hard times for business owners to pay themselves last - if at all. An article in CNNMoney .com claims this is a mistake:

1. Pay yourself first
Joe is making a mistake common among small-business owners, says Collins, by paying himself last. Instead, he should pay himself the same salary he would pay someone else to do his job. If that creates red ink, he may have to lay someone off. "If you can't pay your own personal bills, that's a road to ruin," says Collins. "As hard as it is to let good people go, you've got to do it." (Read the article)

What are the ethical dimensions of this approach? (There are clear business dimensions, as well. Watch for these in my free, twice-monthly newsletter. Click on the link to sign up.)

There are several ethical issues to be decided when thinking this through. Ultimately, the business owner has to decide what values drive her/his actions. What are some of the values that could be involved, and what actions would they suggest?

The owner's mental, emotional and physical well-being must be in top form so that business development will remain strong or the owner will be able to drive recovery. Under this belief, Collins' advice would suggest the owner pay himself/herself well enough to insure against any undue suffering.
The owner has a fiduciary and moral obligation to employees. Under this belief, the owner's behavior must include some way to provide for employees and their families. However, even this is not clear-cut. Does one support employees at the expense of the owner? If so, is there any resulting threat to the long-term viability of the company?
All employees contribute to the success of the company and therefore should be treated equally. In this case, it would seem everyone would take a hit and share the burden. By the way, how does this value and resulting behavior stand up in light of current compensation practices? ARE all treated (payed) equally?
There's a greater good involved in providing for employees who are in the most immediate income-producing positions. This would entail the owner taking a serious look at what she/he contributes to the bottom line of the company and perhaps taking a short-term hit, or, if she/he is a producer, letting others go as in Collins' suggestion, above.

There are probably other values to be examined, too, but we see how many values are competing and making the decision for action more difficult. Make no mistake about it, the owner's behavior IS an ethical issue, even if he/she is not aware of it. The owner's actions exhibit underlying values that affect everyone - perhaps for years to come.

Before accepting "common business wisdom," think through the values you hold and the message you send. Ask yourself if those actions are consistent with your beliefs and the way you want to run the company.

2010-06-09T11:59:00.000-05:00

On The Ethics of Broadcast Humor

There is a big flap over reports that Comedy Central will produce a show portraying a cartoon Jesus and his omnipotent, video-game-addicted father, God. Slated to be produced by those who bring us the very successful "The Office," the rumors have already brought out a great deal of controversy.

What are the ethics involved here? Again, just as a review, a definition of ethics is "the underlying basis for one's outward behavior." Based on their actions, what can we say about Comedy Central's beliefs? If we look only at this particular show, we may believe their public statement that the show is to be a "playful take on religion and society." Does the airing of controversial material, then, demonstrate their belief in holding up issues in a humorous way as a public service? Do they value leading the viewers to examine their own understanding of God and religion? Do they see it as "in the public interest" to help us better understand and therefore tolerate or accept diverse views?

If that were true, we would expect them to be even-handed, looking at all major religions reflected in our society. But what does their behavior show? Well, you decide. They recently pulled a similar spoof of Islam off the air in response to angry responses. This, then, would suggest that while they may believe and value all of what we said above, their overriding value would seem to be one of commercialism. Their behavior indicates they are more concerned with ratings, public response, and advertising income.

The ethics of broadcasting need to be aired (yes, pun intended). The arts have a way of engaging us at an emotional level. We need to move past our initial reactions and reflect on what is really going on. As viewers, we can then respond in a way that fits our own ethics. For some, that may be whole-hearted acceptance; for others, apathy; and still others, threats of violence (as in the case of the Islam spoof).

But realize this - our response is also a behavior that indicates our true values and beliefs. Even not responding reveals something about our values. Think carefully and be very purposeful about your responses. Let them truly reflect your beliefs.

2010-06-02T10:25:00.000-05:00

On the Ethics of Blaming Others

The latest story on people suing others for what appears to be a common-sense case of taking some responsibility for oneself is a woman suing Google for giving her bad directions. See Story. Apparently, this woman Googled walking directions which took her down a busy street without sidewalks and was hit by a car. While the incident is tragic, there are some ethical considerations that bear examining.

To expect someone or some corporation to take all responsibility for one's safety is grounded in a belief that we are not responsible for our own actions. This is a troubling ethical stance in that it results in some very real conflicts for society.

First, it casts all providers of products and services in the role of caretakers, rather than providers. People with this belief are seemingly willing to let others make every day decisions for them - an idea that would make most of us shudder. In this instance, the complainant is trying to hold Google responsible for making real-time, on-site decisions that the woman is much better able to make for herself. For Google to be what she desired would require a "big-brother" type service that would surely be rejected by our privacy-minded culture.

Second, it creates a conflict for all other consumers who pay the extra costs associated with creating a "blame-proof" environment. Corporations would have to spend untold millions researching every possible consumer behavior and then adjust their products to account for all of them. In addition to the cost, it would probably result in something so efficient that it loses its effectiveness. Who, for example, really wants McDonalds to serve lukewarm coffee just so that somebody who doesn't take common-sense precautions doesn't burn herself?

Third, and perhaps more globally, the belief that others are responsible for our safety creates a culture of dependence, entitlement and victimization. While I do not advocate for a return to a "wild west, every-man-for-himself" society, I do believe that valuing self-responsibility and accountability results in a better life for all of us.

2010-05-25T10:15:00.000-05:00

On the Ethics of the AZ Immigration Law

A recent Pew research poll (read results) finds that the majority of Americans support the Arizona immigration law that is the focus of so much press. As to the opposition, it seems to be mostly from the viewpoint that the law is discriminatory against the Latino population. If the Arizona law were passed in MN, would the reactions be from the Somali population? If in Wisconsin, the Hmong?

The ethical question to ask here is, "Is it discriminating or discerning?" To be discriminatory, the purpose or the effect of the law would be to discriminate against a particular group. To be discerning, the purpose or effect would be to reveal or produce information that would facilitate administration of the law. It turns out, that's a very difficult question to answer. Presumably, the law that allows police to stop and detain anyone they suspect to be in the country illegally, applies to any person, regardless of race or ethnicity. In practice, it appears that in Arizona, it applies mostly to those of Hispanic descent. But, if Arizona became the residence of choice for any other people group - say South Africans or Eastern Europeans, the law could, and should be equally applied.

On the other hand, because the application of the law is (almost?) entirely within the Latino population, it could be argued that it is targeted, and therefore discriminatory.

So, in this case, is it the intent of the Arizona legislature to discriminate against Latinos, or to discern legal status of aliens who are illegally using state resources?

Perhaps the best use of the Arizona's legislature's time and energy would be in taking a good, hard look at what its motives are. What is the entire state population's attitudes and beliefs about illegal aliens, the growing percent of the Hispanic community, resources spent on undocumented immigrants, etc. The ethics of this situation are in the attitudes and beliefs of the people who make and administer the laws, as well as in the hearts of the citizens who elect and appoint those officials.

It is time, especially in the states that have sizeable immigrant populations, for public soul searching. Officials need to create opportunities for people to examine and express their beliefs about the changing population mix, the responsibility of the taxpayer to support those in need, and how to apply laws to all without discrimination. Legislators need to be listening intently and taking a proactive stance in creating new laws and "fixing" current ones. Leaders in immigrant communities need to take responsibility for education and accountability within their own people groups.

2010-05-18T10:47:00.001-05:00

On the Ethics of Tax Breaks

A Tweet of mine from a couple days ago got an insightful response. Regarding tax breaks for small business to cover increased health care coverage, I wrote:

How about it, small businesses? Does this latest balance the plus & minus of the HC bill? 35% tax credit this year? (See Story)

My friend and neighbor responded:

How does that impact non-profits that do not pay taxes anyway but will still be forced into this system?

A very good question which raises an ethical issue as well as a practical one. What are the ethics of tax breaks? Here there is clearly an injustice in that for-profit small businesses will be getting a 35% tax break in the first year, extending up to 50% thereafter to help them pay for the increased costs of mandatory coverage for their employees. The non-profit organization of similar size must bear the cost themselves.

How and when a tax break is used ought to be examined closely by the legislative bodies that offer them. Whom are they affecting and how? What is the "downstream" affect on citizens, programs and agencies? What is the affect on future tax payers who must eventually pay for all the "breaks" we offer now?

These are serious ethical issues and I urge legislators everywhere to question the tax break policies they propose.

2010-05-04T16:15:00.001-05:00

On the Ethics of Ethics Statements

Respect, integrity, quality, honesty - what does THAT mean, anyway? So many ethics statements, so many mission and value statements, so many policies and procedures routinely use such words to describe the ethical stance of individuals, companies, agencies, etc. Of course, everyone knows what they mean - or do they?

It is very important to define words in behavioral terms so that employees, customers, vendors, etc. understand and apply those words in daily actions. When we use "integrity" without defining it in behavioral terms, it means what each of us want it to mean. It is neither fair nor helpful to anyone to use universal terms.

In a practical sense, defining words in behavioral terms allows all stakeholders an opportunity to measure themselves and the entity against those behaviors. It forces a specific application of behaviors at different levels. For example, "honesty" for the cashier at a grocery store may be described in different terms than for the HR Director or the Purchasing Manager.

If you really want to get a good hold on ethics, and truly empower all your stakeholders in the daily application of your various position statements, define the words in behavioral terms. It's a tremendously powerful exercise and will result in increased transparency and consistency in behavior.

2010-04-22T13:09:00.000-05:00

On the Ethics of Careless Advertising

Burger King raised a ruckus with an ad recently that depicted the King as insane because he was selling at such a low price. The mental health community is outraged. Add to that a recent commercial in which the King commits theft of industrial secrets and boasts that its new breakfast menu is stolen, but cheaper. Does anyone not see the harm in this kind of advertising?

Getting your point across through humor is a time-honored strategy, but when the humor makes light of disability groups or illegal acts, it's time to fire your ad agency.

However unintended the consequences are (Burger King apologized to the mental health community with a "we didn't intend to..." type of apology), there are consequences, nonetheless. We all have a responsibility to consider the possible consequences of our actions. Sure, we may miss something small, but we ought to be able to avoid hurting others and still deliver a good marketing campaign.

Come on, Burger King, get it right!

2010-04-05T14:39:00.001-05:00

On The Importance of Being Earnest

With apologies to Oscar Wilde

Two strikingly similar stories that stem from the affairs of national celebrities, but the similarities and differences of the news about Tiger Woods and Jesse James shouts, "Teachable Moment!"

Both celebrities hit the news after being "outed" on numerous affairs, damaging both their public reputations and their private lives. Both chose to check themselves into a clinic specializing in treating sexual addiction. Both professed publicly that they wanted to save their marriages. Here's where the difference comes. Woods quietly went into treatment and continues (at least up to now) to show he's serious about getting help. James stormed out after the first day in anger that his wife would not take his phone call.

Now to the ethics issues. If ethics is about choosing behaviors that represent the values and beliefs we hold, what do these two examples suggest about Woods' and James' real values and beliefs? Of course, I cannot presume to see inside their hearts and heads, but since all we have to go on is the outward behavior of people, we must assume each man is speaking out his convictions through his actions - that Woods really does want his marriage and was willing to put his career on hold to do so, and that James wants to manipulate his marriage and career.

Secondly, what is our reaction to these two men to be? What is the ethical response? To condone either behavior, we, too are exposing our values. If we approve of Woods' climb back to the public eye we are asserting a belief that people can change, that it is good and proper to take responsibility for our actions, etc. If we approve of (or even dismiss as unimportant) James' actions, then we exhibit our own belief that taking responsibility for one's actions is only necessary if it ends in getting us what we want; or that strings of sexual misbehavior is acceptable in marriage.

It's tempting to look on these celebrity scandals simply as fodder for conversation. But it is much more important to look at them in light of our own beliefs and actions, i.e. our own ethics. Let's not waste an opportunity to examine ourselves. Such is the Importance of Being Earnest.

2010-03-24T09:50:00.000-05:00

On the Cost of Living One's Values

A recent article on Hannah Montana star, Miley Cyrus, notes that her recent declaration of her Christian faith will likely result in alienating part of her fan base. (See article) This shouldn't surprise us. There is often a cost to ethical behavior - that is, living one's values. Whether you are a star admitting to needing help for sexual addiction, a corporation doing business in an unfriendly industry, or an individual refusing to fill in your March Madness brackets during work time, there is a price to pay for ethics.

Are you willing to pay that price? More to the point, are there areas in which you have already decided the price is too high? Have you allowed your own values to be supplanted by those of the people or systems around you?

Here's the rub: that, too, has a price - your self esteem, your inner peace, the respect of those who know you best. There is always a cost to living your values. The question is when do you pay what?

2010-03-23T10:08:00.000-05:00

On the Ethics of Sovereignty

Is China unethical in its publicly declared stance to censor certain internet sites and material? Is Google unethical in its refusal to abide by national laws in China?

By definition, an ethical dilemma is a situation in which there are competing values calling for different actions in a situation. Whether democratic countries agree with censorship or not, the publicly stated values of China are that it "filters content that it considers harmful to national security or social interest." (See article) Any company that chooses to do business in China must decide if it can ethically follow that country's sovereign right to make policy for its people, or whether it must stop doing business.

"If the situation were reversed..." you might say - but wait, the situation is reversed. The US publicly declares that it will censor certain content, such as child pornography, or objectionable material on public sites, or material that promotes terrorism. Google and other providers abide by the rule of state even though I'm sure they forgo profit to do so.

So, we must applaud Google's decision to pull out of China, but we must also accept China's sovereign right to uphold its values. Whether we work, as a country, to influence China to change those values is yet, another ethical issue.

2010-03-19T15:34:00.001-05:00

Who's Paying for Health Care Reform?

I've never done this before, but I want to quote this e-mail I just got from Jason Zuckerman, CEO of The Alternative Board. It presents some timely news about how the health care bill will be paid for. Please think about it and then, if you feel so moved, contact your representative. The vote is due on Sunday.

I believe this to be an ethical issue that we must all consider carefully.

A tax on small business health insurance plans
Messaged as a “health insurance fee,” this tax is actually a direct tax on small business. The new $7 billion annual tax is structured as a fee on insurers. However, one thing insurers have made clear throughout the healthcare debate: new taxes on them mean new costs passed along to customers. The group that experiences the most cost-shifting is those in the fully-insured market.
The tax exempts self-insured employers, meaning that the costs will fall on the fully-insured market – the market where nearly all of small businesses buy their insurance.
Placing a tax on the very insurance products (small business health insurance plans) that already have the highest (and most volatile) cost increases does not help to reduce the cost of health insurance for small businesses.

Increased paperwork leads to increased costs on small businesses
The so-called “corporate reporting” requirement will place a new and enormous tax-filing burden on all small business owners. The cost of complying with the new filing requirements will increase the cost of doing business and falls disproportionately on small business owners.
The costs associated with tax paperwork–more than $74 per hour–is the most expensive paperwork burden that the federal government imposes on small business owners.
The cost of tax compliance falls heavily on small business and is 66 percent higher for a small business compared to a large business.

An unprecedented increase in Medicare payroll tax
Since its creation, payroll taxes that fund Medicare programs have been dedicated specifically to funding Medicare. H.R. 3590 increases the Medicare payroll tax, uses the additional revenue to pay for non-Medicare programs, and creates a precedent to use payroll taxes to pay for more non-Medicare programs in the future.
Since the majority of small business owners pay their taxes at the individual rate this tax will hit the business income of many small business owners.
The businesses most likely to see the tax increase are those that employee between 20 to 200 workers. These businesses account for more than one-quarter of the American workforce.

Targeted mandate on the construction industry
Under the revised bill, companies involved in the construction industry are required to provide coverage or pay penalties if they have more than five (5) employees and a payroll that exceeds $250,000. A firm size exemption of 50-employees or less applies for all other industries.
The narrowly focused mandate is an unprecedented assault on the construction industry, and especially to the men and women who own and operate small construction firms.
· In an industry where the unemployment rate is exceeding 18 percent, and struggling to overcome historic job losses, this is NOT the reform our nation’s construction industry needs or can afford.

Jason P. Zickerman
President & Chief Executive Officer
TAB Boards International, Inc.
World Headquarters of The Alternative Board^®
11031 Sheridan Blvd.
Westminster, CO 80020
Phone: 303.839.1200 x122
jzickerman@thealternativeboard.com
www.TheAlternativeBoard.com
Blogs.TheAlternativeBoard.com

2010-03-15T16:05:00.000-05:00

On The Ethics of Patting Ourselves on the Back

Once again, I point to my favorite blogger's latest post on The Business Ethics Blog in which he posits that we may be experiencing the Golden Age of Ethics.

"I'm willing to advance the thesis for discussion that business today, in 2010, is more ethical than it's ever been in human history."

My response is that it is vital that we recognize and celebrate our progress lest we become discouraged and fall into a feeling of helplessness in the face of "big, bad business." Too often I hear the comment that ethics are a thing of the past and that "business ethics" is an oxymoron. Professor MacDonald is correct in pointing out that, while we are not out of the closet, we are at least ahead of where we have ever been before.

The ethical question for all of us is whether we value positive, constructive words and action, or whether we value negative, doubting behavior. Challenge yourself to think that through and to examine which value produces what fruit.

For some thoughts on how our ethical stance impacts that of others, please turn on your speakers and watch and listen to Proactive Ethics, a short slide show.

2010-03-11T16:16:00.001-06:00

On The Ethics of Being Phony

A remarkable little study was reported by the Institute for Global Ethics (see report) in which students who thought they were wearing counterfeit sunglasses had a higher incidence of cheating on a task and were more likely to report "feeling less authentic and more self-alienated than those wearing the real thing." Rushworth Kidder, the author of the report on the research, concluded, "Put simply, counterfeit selves do counterfeit things, and fakery breeds more fakery." While I think Kidder missed an important point on the second part of his conclusion, the study does seem to indicate that there are negative consequences to engaging in phony behavior.

It seems that the participants, being aware they were involved in a single phony behavior, were more likely to engage in deceit in another behavior. The ethics lesson here is fairly obvious. We simply can't act contrary to what we know is right without negative consequences. Those who feel they can will probably suffer loss of self-esteem.

Presumably, the study participants were not vetted for anti-social personality disorders, and I suspect the second part of the outcome would have been different for them since they would be likely to have a distorted or non-existent view of right and wrong. For the general public, however, we can assume there is a downside to phony behavior. Call it guilt, call it conviction, call it self-blame - it still comes down to negative repercussions for poor behavior.

What's the lesson for all of us? Even small violations of our personal ethics have malignant outcomes - a conclusion all of us should be happy to see.

2010-02-15T16:53:00.002-06:00

On the Ethics of Eradicating Systemic Poverty

I recently attended a seminar on transforming our communities (see The Elk River Story). What grabbed my attention with regard to ethics was the stated goal, and the corresponding measure of success of a transformed community: the elimination of systemic poverty. Whether one agrees with the means used in this transformation story, it would be hard to disagree that at least one measure of a transformed community is the eradication of systemic poverty.

There is no illusion that this means the elimination of poverty per se, but rather a total transformation of the systems that engender and prolong poverty. Poverty, as defined in this context, includes not only material poverty, but relational, spiritual and motivational poverty, as well.

Throughout history we see the demise of great empires and great leaders connected to the abuse and misuse of people. We see violations of human rights, manipulation of justice and government, and the self-centered attitudes and lifestyles of the few, decreasing the quality of life of the many. It is no wonder that the measure of a transformed society would include the transformation of those systems that protect and assist the citizenry from abuse.

As we make our decisions about local, state and federal government; as we consider the passage of laws and the imposition of taxes, it would serve us well if we were to judge those things by the ethical standard of a transformed community - the elimination of systemic poverty.

Note: The elimination of systemic poverty has been one of the driving forces behind SWiM. It promotes personal responsibility for ethics in the marketplace.

2010-02-05T14:22:00.001-06:00

On the Ethics of Corporations and Free Speech
Why Should the Small Business Owner Care?

Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court in the Citizens United case struck down a part of federal law that limited the freedom of corporations (and unions) to engage in political speech. One of my ethics heroes, Chris MacDonald, wrote a three part series on the ethics involved in that decision. His blog pieces of 2/1/10-2/3/10 speak to free speech and corporate citizenship; the ends vs. means argument of the Law that was struck down; and the subject of corporate "personhood." Excellent reading - thank you, Professor MacDonald.

This entry adds one more issue to the discussion - that of corporations' ethical obligation to their stakeholders. This is the ethical issue that is most relevant to small businesses everywhere, and as is often the case, it holds practical as well as moral implications.

A business, even a one-person shop, represents a brand, customers, employees, and in most cases, partner businesses such as suppliers, distributors, etc. When the business exercises it's right to free speech, it is also representing many others' values and beliefs. That action raises serious ethical issues. Do all those stakeholders agree with the corporation? Or is the corporate view, perhaps, even contrary to the beliefs of its stakeholders?

Just as a corporation has a fiduciary responsibility to its stakeholders, so too, it has an ethical responsibility. In the instance of the campaign finance law, above, if a corporate stance on a particular candidate, platform or issue violates the values and beliefs of its employees, or its investors, it is unethical for the corporation to exercise its right to free speech. Note, it is not illegal, but rather unethical.

The practical implications are perhaps more compelling to the small business owner. Do you want to take the risk of alienating your employees, your customers, your vendors? Do you want to brand your product or service with a particular political view?

If you are, by mission, an advocacy group, then maybe the answer is, "Yes." In most other situations, however, exercising free speech as a corporation is both ethically and financially a dangerous choice to make.

2010-02-02T10:19:00.001-06:00

On the Ethics of Mood

An article from Ethics Newsline pointed up a University of Southern California ethics project in which artists raised ethical questions through their work.

"One sculpture, for example, examines whether it's right to air a constantly negative and depressed demeanor - which, like second hand smoke, affects those around you."

We all know people who seem to "bring the room down" just by their presence. They seem to suck the joy right out of any occasion. That's just their personality. They have the right to act however they want. But just because they can doesn't have to affect our values, beliefs and resulting ethical behavior.

Ethics is about choosing behaviors that are consistent with the values and beliefs of both yourself and the society in which you live. An ethical dilemma is born when there arises a difference in those values. In this instance, if the person demonstrating a constantly negative mood is acting out his or her true beliefs about life and situation, then an ethical dilemma exists.

So, how do the rest of us deal with this ethical dilemma as it affect us? We have an ethical obligation to behave according to our values and beliefs, i.e., to demonstrate an upbeat, positive outlook. Choose NOT to be brought down by the mood of others. Choose to be bold and stand up for your view of life, even if the prevailing mood is negative.

It may not be unethical for a person to behave negatively all the time, but it certainly does not require the rest of us to adopt that person's outlook on life.

(Click here for a presentation on Proactive Ethics - how you can affect the ethics of those around you)

On the Ethics of Advocacy Advertising

2010-01-30T20:48:00.001-06:00

An announcement by Focus on the Family that they would be sponsoring a pro-life ad during the Superbowl has aroused the National Organization for Women. (See Link). This seems to be an awkward stance for them to take, from an ethical standpoint. The Superbowl is well known for ads that demean women and cast them as sex objects. NOW isn't opposing those ads.

Instead, they are opposing an ad in which a woman talks openly about her commitment to life and family. NOW has always championed women's rights. Is it now denying Pam Tebow's right to her opinions, feelings and morality?

Action always defines the real ethics of a person or an organization more than what they say. It seems that NOW needs to look closely at its actions and compare them to its own statements of belief. Their opposition to the Superbowl pro-life ad exposes a political agenda, not a moral one.

On the Ethics of Rhetoric

2010-01-28T12:39:00.000-06:00

The State of the Union Address was delivered last night and it spurred a thought on rhetoric. What someone says does not in itself present an ethical issue. Words, delivery, sincerity and Power Points do not create an ethical dilemma. The ethics of rhetoric come to bear only upon the speaker's actions before and after the words.

I was struck by the amazing difference between the oratory styles of Obama and Bush, but in the end, it will be what an administration does that defines their values and beliefs, not what or how well they express themselves.

If we are to be a society that holds up high ethical values, we need to get very good at examining actions, rather than words. We, ourselves, need to be doers of our words, and we need to hold others accountable for that same standard.

On the Ethics of Extreme Sports

2010-01-25T15:05:00.001-06:00

A recent report on the weather channel described the rescue of a skier hurt in an avalanche. A similar story of mountain climbers showed up in the February '10 issue of Reader's Digest. In both cases (and in many other reports elsewhere) rescue personnel risk their lives and spend thousands of dollars of taxpayer money to save people who are fulfilled by challenging the elements in extreme sports. This is definitely an ethics issue.

Now, some extreme sports enthusiasts put up bonds against these very situations, but most are amateur athletes putting themselves and many others in harm's way. But putting up insurance against eventual rescue does not begin to pay the cost of the lives lost in the rescue process. This is a grave injustice to professional first responders as well as a gross misuse of public money.

Kudos to those rescue personnel who have chosen a life of protecting all of us in cases of accidents, violence, etc. And many thanks to the public entities who have the foresight to provide equipment and personnel to support them.

But a line needs to be drawn. By all means, protect those who need protection, but for those who intentionally put themselves in harm's way, let them do so at their own - and only their own risk.

On Ethics at Work and the Economy

2009-12-28T09:35:00.000-06:00

Workplace ethics improve in a down economy. A study just released by the Ethics Resource Center lends some credence to supporters of increased ethical training and policies in the workplace. Among other things, the study said that in spite of respondents feeling the results of the recession,

"key measures of ethical behavior – the amount of misconduct observed, the willingness to report misdeeds, the strength of ethical cultures and the pressure to cut corners – all improved since ERC’s last survey in 2007, shortly before the recession started."

It seems that in tough times, people appreciate structure and transparency. Employers and employees alike demand a higher standard of fairness in behavior than in times of prosperity. Perhaps the sense is that there's not as much to go around, so everyone must do his/her part and reap only that which is due. The study even suggests that the stronger the ethical culture, the more acceptance there is of CEO salary and benefits.

So what does this mean for small businesses and organizations? There is no time like the present to review all your practices from an ethics standpoint. People are more open to an ethical environment and more likely to hold each other accountable. One important caveat: employees are less likely to report misconduct if they feel there is likely to be retaliation. Management must be prepared to back up words with action and hold themselves to the same level of accountability.

Putting a strong ethics culture in place now is timely, especially if the economy continues to improve. Ethical behavior tends to slip as conditions improve. The study's authors state,

“Yet our research suggests that the improvements in ethical conduct will be temporary. The focus needs to stay on ethical culture and the tone at the top, starting with an organization’s directors and most senior executives.”

Make a concentrated effort now to examine and shore up ethics policies and procedures. Pay attention to the application of those policies and how managers and employees perceive their use and effects in actual practice. Build in ongoing forums to continually review and make adjustments as times and circumstances change.

For practical help in creating or strengthening an ethics culture in the workplace, go to SWiM, Starting With Me.

On the Ethics of Speaking Out

2009-11-24T10:33:00.000-06:00

Keeping quiet when we see an unethical or illegal practice - that is the stuff of which an unethical society is made. The gossip of a family member, a joke in poor taste told by a friend, a questionable charge on an invoice created by a coworker, a stolen answer on a test by a fellow student - all of these left unchecked, contribute to a decline in ethical awareness and behavior. These are the negative side of the Proactive Ethics Model (See my Power Point with sound or my article) in which the lack of action of an individual can set off a negative chain of events.

As reported in a recent NY Times article, the US government turning a blind eye to foreign diplomats with records of corruption and human rights violations entering our country for various reasons creates a general sense that the US doesn't care about those legal and ethical issues as much as it cares about other things (oil money? political alliances?).

Ethics is not merely about "doing," but also about "being." Just because we don't engage in an unethical behavior doesn't make us ethical. We have a responsibility to live out, speak out and act out our values and beliefs. This may not be the popular thing to do in a given situation, but it is the ethical thing.

On the Ethics of Democracy in Business Decisions

2009-11-09T09:18:00.000-06:00

The occasion of the health care bill passing the House by five votes raises questions about how democracy works - majority rules - and whether that model is ethical in a business venue. Can you imagine running a business as a democracy?

What if you were wanting to roll out a new product and your research showed that only the barest majority of consumers were behind it? Would you see it as a mandate to move forward? Would it shake your trust in your R&D department? Would it be cause for celebration or for a serious reconsideration of what the customer wants, needs, and would be willing to pay for?

What if the consumer feedback you were getting raised questions about the ethics of producing the product? Would you consider a narrow margin of favorable market research as reason enough to tool up for production? If some of your major stakeholders expressed a belief that your product would create an unfair burden on them, how would you react?

Ethical decisions cannot be based on democracy. Majority rule does not guarantee moral right and winning a simple majority does not guarantee viable products.

On the Ethics of Expressing One's Faith

2009-10-07T14:43:00.000-05:00

It was one of those watershed events. In a meeting of people from many different cultures, a Native American introduced himself with a simple, yet powerful description of his beliefs in the Great Spirit and the importance of his ancestors, who were buried near the very spot from which he was speaking. No one else in the room did anything even close. It had a convicting effect on me as I began to question why I had never acknowledged the most important influence on my life as part of who I was.

Now, years later, I challenge my clients - and all you readers - to truly understand the values and beliefs that influence your lives and to articulate those in a personal mission statement. There are two important ethical considerations here.

First, since ethics by definition, is the application of our values and beliefs in real life action, it is vital that we examine and name those values. To do otherwise is to act capriciously, reacting to the circumstances rather than plotting a purposed direction or taking a stand on our understanding of truth, justice, righteousness, etc.

Second, effective decisions on if, when and how to share our beliefs can only be made if we understand the relation between our beliefs and the circumstances. This is part of why people who share their faith are often seen as insensitive and/or judgmental. I believe it is irresponsible of people to comment publicly on others' actions when they have not examined their own values and thought through how they relate to the situation.

Back to my Native American role model - his introduction was an important step in setting the stage for the talks that were to take place between the various communities of color. His belief system shaped his view point and sharing that from the beginning eliminated all kinds of misunderstanding and questions.

I was recently at another business meeting in which the speaker shared a very personal faith story as he talked about his company and described the way he has chosen to do business. Again, it seemed appropriate to the situation in that the purpose of the talk was to help all the other participants get to know this man and his company to evaluate whether and how they were to do business with him.

Expressing one's faith can be a powerful and effective communication tool; but it is only effective when we have first done a good job of expressing our values to ourselves.

On the Ethics of Apologies

2009-09-14T16:15:00.000-05:00

Several high profile apologies have been reported lately from sports and entertainment stars, from politicians and business executives. What are the ethics issues in an apology?

Ethics, remember, involves the selection and use of principles in one's behavior. Speaking is a behavior and reflects a person's beliefs. Apologies, especially public ones, expose one's principles by what is said, what is not said, and how it is said. As if that weren't enough, one's actions after an apology further defines the true character and beliefs of a person.

The next time you hear an apology, look carefully at the words, the delivery and the accompanying behavior. All of these act together to reveal the underlying principles.

For some recent examples, read The Art of An Apology.

On The Ethics of Taxation Without Representation

2009-09-01T14:01:00.009-05:00

Whatever your political leanings, it is important to consider the ethics of shifting the cost of today's government to tomorrow's citizens. This YouTube advertisement from DefeatTheDebt.com drives home the point that we are creating an onerous future for our children and grandchildren.

So, what is the ethical issue, here? In a word, it is deceit. We are deceiving ourselves and we are "slipping one over" on our progeny. While it is important whether such-and-such a program should be proposed and passed, it is equally important that we are transparent about how it will be paid for. One of the founding tenets of the Revolution was "No taxation without representation," yet we are heavily taxing the children and not-yet-born of our country without any representation from them.

What about requiring a "Truth in Lending" statement be attached to every bill so that citizens could clearly understand the financial impact of proposed programs on our children and grandchildren?

What about requiring a minimum down payment from today's taxes on any proposed program along with an amortization schedule detailing the remaining time and amount?

Progress is all important, but it is totally unethical for us to saddle future taxpayers with today's debt.

On the Company You Keep

2009-08-28T13:54:00.000-05:00

Once again my favorite ethics blogger, Chris MacDonald sparked some thoughts about ethics in his latest post. How does the company you keep reflect on your ethics?

I was personally challenged with this recently with my Twitter account, DailyConscience. I received a "So-and-so is now following you on Twitter" message. As I always do, I clicked to find out more about this person and whether she was someone I might want to follow. Turns out it was a person with only 2 Followers and many Follows. Her avatar was that of a scantily clad woman in a provocative pose, and her 1 Tweet was an invitation to do things my morals would not allow me to do.

This is a great example of an ethical dilemma. My Tweets are meant to get people to think about their behavior and values - to "tweak" the conscience everyday. Do I assume "So-and-so" actually was touched by my latest post and was reaching out for some help? If so, by all means, let her follow. Or do I assume I was just another scalp on her (non-existent) belt? If that's the case, do I want to be associated with the moral stand she represents? My answer at the end of this post.

MacDonald was writing to point up the potential ethical pitfalls in corporate sponsorship. If we were all clear on our corporate and personal beliefs, we would do well to compare them regularly with the beliefs of those with whom we associate. Even if they are different, or conflicting, we may choose to continue the association, but at the very least it would be wise to open a dialogue about the differences. For example, in the case of the conference sponsorship MacDonald was writing about, it might work to publicly acknowledge the differences and hold them up to debate.

As an ethics professional, I try to be very open about my beliefs - not because I believe I am "more right" than anyone else, but because knowing and understanding others' beliefs and what motivates their behavior is a core function of an ethicist.

So, take an inventory of the company you keep - your customers, vendors, partners, investors, investments, employees, etc. Ask yourself how each reflects on the public and private values you espouse and whether those relationships need to be reexamined.

So what did I decide about allowing "So-and-So" to follow my Tweets? I decided, "yes." At best, she may read something that causes her to think about and question her own values and behavior. At worst, someone may page through the thumbnails of my followers and decide that I screwed up and let one slip through. For now, I choose to take the risk of being judged by the company I keep.

On Looking from the Outside In

2009-08-26T10:58:00.002-05:00

This quote in the summer 2009 issue of The Corporate Responsibility Officer caught my eye:

"For pharma, the best way to improve is to talk to those outside the pharma industry." (Melinda Hanisch, Office of Corporate Responsibility and Global Policy Support, Merck.)

Thank you Ms Hanisch. This is a lesson important to everyone in every industry - and applies not only to corporate responsibility, but every phase of business.
We must all be constantly looking at ourselves through the standards of others. This doesn't mean we need to accept the standards of others, but rather to continually hold up our own decisions, products, ideas, and procedures to the beliefs of others.

The benefits to us are that we keep ourselves from organizational incest. We open the doors to new ideas and thoughts. We allow others to help us examine our own. And we gauge the pulse of other markets and niches. We will recognize the need for education of both ourselves and others and we will gain opportunities and entries to speak into others' lives and values.

Take every opportunity to look from the outside in. Look at almost any corporate (or even personal) scandal in the news and think how differently things may have turned out had those involved talked to people outside their situation to hear how their emerging decision sounded to them.

Such an important step - and so easy to implement.

On Building Ethical Landmarks

2009-08-21T15:18:00.004-05:00

An unusual piece of research showed up in a NY Times article as reported in the St Paul Pioneer Press. The researchers found that hikers in the wilderness who did not have visible landmarks - such as the sun, moon, distant mountain peak, etc. - really did wander around in circles. It turns out, "'You cannot trust your own senses at all,' said Carol Stone White, an author and editor who has chronicled hikers' exploits, awesome and otherwise, in Adirondack Peak Experiences and other books."

So why is this a subject in an ethics blog? "You can't trust your own senses at all" is the key. Whether we are talking about business, personal, cultural or any other ethics situations, we must have ethical landmarks against which to judge our actions. Dr. Jan Souman of the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics in Tuebingen says, "The brain has different sources of information for almost everything...There is a complicated interplay of different senses. Those cues — images flowing over the retina, the sense of acceleration or turning in the inner ear, even how the muscles and bones are moving — are combined in the brain to give a sense of where the body is going. But all those information sources are kind of relative," Souman says. "They don't tell you you are moving in the same direction as an hour ago."

Souman, of course, is talking about the physical brain and physical actions, but does not our experience tell us this is also true in the realm of values, beliefs and their resulting behavioral decisions?

In order for us to behave ethically, we must identify, recognize and act on ethical landmarks. Anything else is relative and will lead us in circles. Just as a hiker needs to be well prepared before venturing into the woods with a good compass or GPS, so too do we need to be prepared to make strong, ethical decisions. Yet we are often afraid to enter into the kind of discussions that unearth those landmarks. We often lack the skill to discuss things without levelling judgment or receiving others' remarks as judgment.

Be bold. Be respectful. But most importantly, be genuinely inquisitive about your own and other people's values and beliefs.

Other articles on defining the basis for ethical decsions:
Playing by the Wrong Rules; Playing the Wrong Game

Lying and Cheating - Are They Ever Right?

On What Do You Bias Your Opinion?

On Teaching People to (Eat) Fish

2009-08-07T05:36:00.003-05:00

Finally, a health care initiative that makes sense. A Star Tribune article reports a Minnesota Health Department grant to test whether people will make healthier choices around lifestyle habits related to chronic diseases. This comes in the midst of national debate around spending billions of dollars to provide universal health care.

While I can't tell from the short article how effective the program might be, it certainly seems to be a wiser use of money than offering the entire nation a free pass for remedial care. This comes under the old "Give a man a fish..." saying, in that it creates opportunities for people to affect their need for health care interventions through healthy care habits.

On the Ethics of "Free" Money

2009-07-31T11:39:00.005-05:00

The current wave of stimulus-type programs raise many ethical questions that beg to be answered. It seems it would be a healthy exercise for us as a society to have an open discussion about those questions and the answers our actions pose. May I suggest starting from the standpoint of comparing "common wisdom" to today's situations? Here are just a few ways to start those conversations.

"Pay now or pay later." The massive amount of money being pumped (or being proposed) into our economy must come from somewhere. What are the ethics of paying for today's ills with tomorrow's money? Who will pay for the billions in deficit spending? Are we comfortable putting names on that debt? What if legislators had to go on record saying, "I vote to let my grandaughter Amy and my two grandsons, Jason and David, pay for the GM bailout."

"There is no such thing as a free lunch." Did we really think that stimulus dollars directly to taxpayers was free money? Let me think, who supports the government? Oh, yeah, the taxpayers. So, the government gives me $200 and I pay it back over how long? At what cost?

"You reap what you sow." If people made poor decisions in buying gas guzzling cars, trucks and SUVs in the past, how will giving them a credit toward trading them in impart wisdom for future decisions? While I understand the immediate effect of stimulating car purchases and eliminating gas guzzling vehicles, what are the ethical implications of rewarding those who made bad decisions and not those who made good decisions?

"There are no guarantees in life." What are the ethics involved in guaranteed health care? Can our health care system truly guarantee consumers they will be cared for? (And to borrow from the above conversation, "at what cost, to whom?"). How will the system be structured so that there is incentive for research and development to meet the unforseen demands of future health issues and problems? Who will make decisions about what care is to be denied to all because of the cost of care supplied to all?

"Learn to stand on your own two feet." Finally, pertaining to all the above ideas, where are the lines to be drawn between responsibility for oneself on the one hand and removing the ability and incentive for self-responsibility on the other? What are the ethics of placing the onus for self-care on society? On the opposite end of the spectrum, what are the ethics of not caring for those who cannot care for themselves?

These are not partisan issues. These are conversations we ought to be having with each other in every forum we can. Making decisions without understanding and being open about the values on which they are based is simply unethical.

On Health Care Reform - Starting with Me

2009-07-28T07:54:00.004-05:00

As health care premiums soar as much as 25% per year, indicating spiral costs in the industry, everyone is talking about health care reform. The president and congress, state governors and legislatures, health care executives and think tank experts are all scrambling to find an answer to this very complex social problem.

True health care reform, though, will not be structured through legislation or insurance incentives. True health care reform must start with each of us. We are chiefly responsible for health care costs, in that, if we lived in such a way as to reduce the need for health care, the costs would decrease.

Oversimplification? Yes, admittedly. There are medical conditions, trauma, and epidemics that are beyond our personal control, but studies show that an extremely large percentage of health care interventions are focused on lifestyle related issues.

At the personal level, diet, exercise, hygiene, drugs, alcohol, smoking and stress are all things we do have some control over.

At the community level we have a direct effect through our driving habits, ecological behavior, hygiene, and yes, drugs, alcohol and smoking.

So what are we waiting for? I,for one will not stand by and watch the health care debate. I resolve to engage in reform where I can, starting immediately, Starting With Me.

On a Firm Foundation for Our Actions

2009-07-13T07:51:00.006-05:00

Just saw this story in the news: New Age Comes in Many Forms. The author makes a statement about the New Age movement, "where beliefs change faster than you can flip a tarot card." A "flip" comment, to be sure (pun intended), but reading on through the rest of the article causes one to think about ethics - the practical application of one's beliefs in any given situation.

Kathy McGee, a New Age magazine editor is quoted as saying, "New Age thinking is all-or-nothing — you either have an open mind to all beliefs, or you don't. It is wrong for anyone to pick which beliefs are acceptable. You don't want to say, 'This is OK, and this is not,' There is nothing we would exclude."

Now this is important because it illustrates a vital point. The comment is directed at Tim Miejan, a fellow New Age editor about whom the linked article is written. Miejan is making decisions on what to publish in his magazine based on his beliefs about the New Age movement. So, McGee is saying that Meijan's belief is wrong because all beliefs are right. Her behavior is negating her own statement of belief!

If all beliefs are acceptable, there is no longer any foundation on which to base daily decisions and actions. Standards are a moving target. In order to make a decision to act or speak, you must embrace some value. By doing so, you are holding that value more dear than others. It is impossible to "exclude nothing."

It takes courage to articulate and stand on a set of values that influence action. It takes purposeful, informed thought to adopt some beliefs and weed out others. I agree with McGee that we must have an open mind - to weigh and consider the myriad viewpoints and ideas that come at us, but an open mind is not the end. An open mind is a stance we take to help us adopt a firm foundation for our actions.

Ethics is, among other things, a discipline in that it takes work to define that firm foundation and to choose the practical application of our beliefs.

On Sticking to the Limits

2009-07-07T11:57:00.006-05:00

I had a great Fourth of July weekend, fishing with my brother-in-law in Northern Minnesota. We caught so many fish, we actually had to dump the basket out in the boat to count and be sure we weren't going over the limit. (We weren't). It got me to thinking about limits - fishing limits, speed limits, spending limits, social limits, etc.

Limits define the social mores of our culture. They may be written or unwritten, spoken or tacit. They tend to be proxy measures of our values. For example, fishing limits suggest a value of protecting the balance of nature, yet they also suggest that catching and eating fish is an acceptable value. Limits on children talking to strangers communicate a cultural norm that strangers are potentially dangerous and that people we know are essentially safe (not true statistically, by the way).

Some limits seem to be always obeyed, like not making dangerous comments while at an airline terminal. Some limits seem to be obeyed, but not necessarily as written. For example, speed limits are posted at, say 70, but the unwritten norm is that it's okay to go as much as 10 miles over the limit. And some limits seem to be ignored altogether, like walking across a non-busy street against the red light.

So, how do we know when to obey a limit, when to bend a limit, and when to ignore a limit? The point is, we can't. If sticking to limits is always situational, always left up to our interpretation of their importance or the likelihood of enforcement, then they are not limits at all.

Repeat after me, all limits must be stuck to, Starting With Me.

On Making the Most of Freedom

2009-07-02T22:57:00.004-05:00

In the USA, we pride ourselves on our freedoms, we remember those who paid dearly for gaining them and honor those who protect them - with our words. But what does our behavior say? Do we merely act like someone who has been freed FROM, or do we make the most of our freedoms to make America a better place for all?

"Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil." And yet news stories are filled with those who have done just that. Shame on them. Ah, but it's easy to point fingers at the mighty who have fallen by abusing their freedoms. It's much harder to be honest with ourselves.

How many of us break the laws of our land because of our own self-centeredness, or just because we can? Does that truly honor our forefathers? Our men and women in uniform?

This holiday weekend, give some serious thought and sincere discussion to the topic of honoring and respecting our freedoms. Take a close look at your daily behaviors and ask yourself if you are proud of each of those actions. Imagine yourself explaining to the families of those who have died for our country how you are making the most of the freedoms their loved ones bought. Picture yourself taking a policeman along for a ride in your car; a pastor along at work; a social worker home with your family. Compare your freedom to make money with your freedom to give; your freedom from persecution and harassment with your freedom to help and comfort.

Repeat this: Freedom will always be highly valued in word AND behavior, Starting With Me.

On the Ethics of Buying Things

2009-06-26T09:33:00.003-05:00

It used to be such a simple decision: Do I need this or not? Can I afford it or not? The ethics were fairly simple - that is, does buying this item line up with my values or not?

Actually, it was never that simple. There have always been ethical questions connected to our buying behavior. There may be a few more to be aware of now, but I maintain there is almost no action we can take, or word we can speak that does not have ethical considerations, and always have had.

A few things to consider before you decide to buy that next item on your list:

Does buying it mean not buying something else that is more important to you or your family or business?

Does buying it distract you from accomplishing something of higher value in your life?

Does buying that particular item violate one or more of your values? For example:
Does the manufacture, distribution or use harm the environment?
Does the manufacturer use unfair labor tactics or employ child or coerced labor?
Do you believe it is better to buy locally; or buy union-made; or buy used; or buy from small sellers over large; or buy things exported from free trade zones; or buy things from minorities?

Does buying it have collateral ethical consequences, that is, while there may be nothing unethical about the product itself, does it communicate values that are contrary to what you want to convey? E.g. The small business owner who buys luxury items while paying minimum wages to employees.

Buying is not a simple decision. Our buying behavior is closely tied to many ethical issues.

Repeat this: Buying decisions will always support and further positive values, Starting With Me.

On Creating an Ethics-Friendly Environment

2009-06-23T09:53:00.004-05:00

We've all read them: "The Statement of Organizational Ethics" in most well-run corporations, public and private, government and not-for-profit. Many are very well crafted and are vital to articulating company values as they relate to employee, community, customer and shareholder alike. Mandatory orientation and training press home both the details and the spirit of those statements.

But in practice, employees in some of the best run orgnizations I know compain of the chasm that exists between the official ethics statement and the daily process of making ethical decisions.

Why? What's going on? How can such carefully researched, well-written documents, backed by intense ethics training fall short in guiding day-to-day behavior? I maintain that the missing element is modeling and support at the operational level. An ethics training study I ran across at EthicsWorld.org gives credence to that thought. Some of the conclusions of the study say this:

"-- In terms of the outcomes studied, organizational support for ethics is more important than any aspect of training. Whatever training method is employed, however frequently it is offered and by whom, developing a culture that is perceived to support ethics is the most important thing an organization can do to influence ethics-related outcomes."

"-- Perceived organizational support for ethics (from leadership and coworkers) contributes much more to favorable ethical outcomes than does any type of training method."

I applaud boards and executives for the time and effort put into developing corporate ethics statements, but I urge them to spend at least as much time and effort into building an ethics-friendly environment - that is, one in which ethical discussion and decision making is supported and encouraged at every level. I believe the result will be healthier ethics throughout the entire organization.

SWiM® Starting With Me™

On Judging Others

2009-06-16T20:02:00.005-05:00

I know a lot of entrepreneurs, and I find they cover every imaginable kind of personality type, social and economic class, race, creed and culture. So, why is it that I can still make the rookie mistake of judging someone by his or her looks, or style, or dress or ????. Everytime I think I've matured past judgementalism, I get surprised by finding that I've done it again!

I believe it is part of our DNA. Judging others is, in some primitive part of our brain, a defense mechanism. We scan others to see if they are a danger, or if they are prey, or if they are simply part of the landscape. This presents us with an ethical dilemma.

Judging people is almost always done on inadequate, incomplete and incorrect information. (I remember my father often asked, "On what do you bias your opinion?") I value diversity, creativity, and individualism - all things that could be easily mistaken as threats to my values of self-preservation and protection of my family, my friends, my business and my possessions. The mistake I make isn't in judging others, but in PRE-judging them without sound insights into who they really are and what they value and what they represent.

I choose to always consider others as better than myself, therefore keeping a teachable spirit about me. I choose to live out the Golden Rule, treating others as I myself would like to be treated. I choose to seek out as complete a picture as possible of people before I make my judgments.

Repeat this, "Seeing others first as allies is less likely to establish them as enemies - Starting With Me."

On Seat Belts as an Ethics Issue

2009-06-10T10:43:00.006-05:00

Beginning this month in Minnesota, seat belt laws were tightened up. It is now the law that everyone in the car be belted in and that for the first time, law enforcement officers can stop and ticket on that offense alone.

Minnesota is reported as having an 87% compliance rate for seat belt usage and this law is expected to nudge it up to 92%. So, what about those 8% who still will not be belted in? Is this a legal issue only, or an ethics issue in addition?

What are the values decisions involved in a decision on whether to wear a seat belt or not?

What value do you place on your own life?
What value do you place on the lives of those in your vehicle?
What responsibility do you have as a driver in keeping yourself physically restrained during an accident so that you have a chance to maintain or regain control?
How does increasing risk of injury or death affect health care, auto insurance, availability and cost of emergency services, etc.?
What is your responsibility to your surviving family members, friends, work associates, etc.?
What value do you place on authority and the laws of your municipality, state, etc.?

(As an aside, I posit that any legal issue is also an ethics issue. How one interacts with laws is based on what and how one values the government's authority in our lives. By definition, ethics is choosing behavior based on one's values, so how we behave in relation to any rule or law is an ethical decision.)

Seat belt usage, then is a great launching point for discussions on our values. Don't let this news item go by without entering into discussions with others. It will help you define and strengthen your own values as well as challenge others to do the same. (Scroll down a few blog entries to May 19 and listen to the short Power Point on Proactive Ethics).

Repeat this, opportunities to examine and mature value based decisions will not be wasted, Starting With Me.

On Humility - A teachable heart

2009-06-02T10:45:00.003-05:00

I began thinking about humility as a business asset. True humility is having a teachable heart; recognizing it isn't all about me; being willing to see the value in other people and ideas. I don't imagine the subject comes up real often in business schools, but perhaps it ought to.

Humility positions a company, a board, a CEO, a manager, an employee to grow and improve. It creates a sense of openness to others' viewpoints and activities as having some value for one's own. It invites sincere inquiry and fosters constructive conversation and collaboration. It validates others while expanding and strengthening self.

Purposefully putting oneself in a position where we expose ourselves to those viewpoints, beliefs, and opinions is only useful if we do so with an attitude of humility - having a teachable heart.

Peer advisory boards, business roundtables, professional organizations all have greater value when entered into with an expectation that we will learn, grow, be challenged, even corrected.

Having said that, be forewarned against false humility, which is really pride in disguise. False humility projects an image that is unteachable and unchangable and positions us to hold on to the present.

Repeat this, from now on, humility will be added to the necessary tools in my business, Starting With Me.

On Becoming Aware of Your Values

2009-05-22T07:46:00.002-05:00

Lawrence Kohlberg, a researcher in ethics, taught that moral maturity comes as a result of being exposed to different values and having to work through our own reactions to them based on our own beliefs. (Admittedly, that's an oversimplification of Kohlberg's work!) I think you will find that to be true, though.

Try this. Expose yourself to new and diverse situations. Plan to put yourself in situations in which you will experience people outside of your usual circles. Step out of your comfort zone over the next month. Work at a food shelf, visit a shut-in, mentor a troubled teen, teach a budgeting class at a prison, become a big-brother or big-sister. If you live in the suburbs, volunteer to work at an inner city agency. If you're from the inner city, do the opposite. Look for a cultural celebration in a culture unlike your own and participate in it. If you are not a church attender, choose one and go four weeks in a row.

By purposefully exposing yourself to new and varied belief sets, you will begin challenging your own values. You will either change and adjust them or you will strengthen and more fully appreciate them. Either way, ethics will become a more central part of your thinking and decision making.

Repeat this: Discovering and acting on moral truths will become an integral part of life, Starting With Me.

2009-05-19T12:01:00.001-05:00

Proactive Ethics Slideshare

View more presentations from Bob Ryan.

On the Paradox of Pro-Life and Pro-Choice

2009-05-16T12:33:00.003-05:00

Item: Judge orders a 13-year-old Minnesota teen to undergo chemotherapy for cancer, even though the toxic treatment contradicts the spiritual beliefs of him and his family.
Item: A Wisconsin woman is accused of manslaughter for praying while her daughter died of undiagnosed diabetes.
Item: The Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that there is no constitutional right to physician-assisted suicide, but requires all states to "not obstruct the provision of adequate palliative care."
Item: Roe v. Wade holds that a mother may abort her pregnancy for any reason, up until the "point at which the fetus becomes viable.’

Does anyone else not see a paradox of epic proportions here? On the one hand the government disallows individuals and families from making decisions about prolonging their lives and treating disease, while giving mothers the legal right to terminate pregnancies within the first 7 months.

In the first item, a family is required to use painful and unwanted treatment to keep a boy alive.
In the second item, a woman is held responsible for not seeking medical treatment for her daughter, even though she did seek treatment she felt was viable.
In the third item, physicians are required to provide palliative care, but are enjoined from physician-assisted suicide, ending a life that is clearly not viable.
In the fourth item, a life that would be viable with a mere 7 months of in-vitro care, is allowed to be ended with physician-assisted abortion.

There are different ways to describe this paradox:
Life is valuable, except for when it's not.
Treatment is required, except for when it's not.
Individual choice is sacred, except for when it's not.

This inconsistent application of values and core beliefs is not about ethics. It is about politics - making decisions based on competing perceptions of "rights" and prevailing opinions and popularity.

Repeat this: Ethical decisions will always be based on responsibility to core values, not rights, Starting With Me. SWiM®

On The Rewards of Honesty

2009-05-14T21:16:00.003-05:00

True story. My wife spotted a special teacup that she likes to collect at a garage sale marked 10 cents. Knowing that it was truly worth $28-$48, she suggested the owner reconsider selling it. The owner explained her mother left her a collection of teacups, but she didn't recognize this one as being special. She did reconsider and decided to add it back into the collection.

To see the happiness on my wife's face when she told me the story said a lot about the rewards of honesty. Where most people would have quietly bought the cup for ten cents and gained something that would be all but lost on a shelf for years, my wife gained the satisfaction of having added to that woman's life. The woman gained back a piece of her mother to pass on to who knows whom.

Repeat this: many and great rewards will be reaped from doing the right thing, Starting With Me. http://www.swimstartingwithme.com

On Teaching Morality

2009-05-14T09:44:00.004-05:00

On an old rerun of The Golden Girls, Blanch bought a new dress, planning to wear it once and return it as new. When Dorothy challenged, "You can't do that," she answered, "Well, yes I can honey, I'm just going to put it on for a few hours and take it off again."

While the behavior itself was unethical, what struck me more was that she didn't see it as unethical. Either she wasn't taught what is moral and what is not, or she was taught that this behavior was moral.

How do we teach morality? What are our employees, our kids, our co-workers learning? One of the Greek philosphers is credited with saying, "The teaching of virtue is the asking of questions." We must create an environment of endless inquiry; a mileiu in which challenging the status quo and examining our motives and behavior is not only tolerated, but encouraged. We must equip ourselves, our children, our workplaces, our schools and our government to ask questions respectfully, yet relentlessly.

There will always be immoral behavior, but it never need be because someone didn't know it was immoral. Repeat this, motives and behaviors will always be questioned - Starting With Me. - SWiM®

On Price Shopping

2009-05-07T07:43:00.006-05:00

There is a whole culture built up around shopping for the best price. There are descriptors deemed positive for people who industriously hunt down the lowest prices. "Thrifty" is clearly a desirous character trait, but what are the ethics involved in price shopping?

On the positive side shopping for the lowest price may seems like good stewardship, protecting the very resources entrusted to us. We make our family's or our company's dollar stretch.

On the negative side, shopping for the lowest price may challenge some even deeper held values without our realizing it. Here are some examples to think about the next time you begin checking out prices for the best deal.

Does the lowest price represent a decrease in quality?
Does the lowest price indicate a sacrifice of safety?
Does buying at the lowest price sacrifice a valuable relationship with a long-standing vendor?
Is the lowest price attained by use of unfair or abusive labor practices?
Does the lowest price separate you from some of the benefits of warranty, service, availability of parts, etc.?

Ethics is all about asking questions of yourself and your values and how your behavior fits those values. What seems like a "no-brainer" on the surface, may in fact be fraught with all sorts of ethical dilemmas.

Repeat after me, "Buying decisions must be made with an eye toward values and beliefs, as well as price - Starting With Me."

On Adding Value to My Workplace

2009-05-04T08:13:00.003-05:00

There've been a number of blogs lately questioning the ethics of employees using social networking sites at work. I own my business, but it poses a dilemma for me, too.

What if we all asked ourselves this question: "How does my activity bring value to my workplace?" After all, that's why we were hired or that's why we started our businesses. If we were to weigh each of our actions (and our words) against that question, what kind of difference could we be making? What kind of an impact would we have for our customers, co-workers, and our community?

Repeat this, "With every thought, word and deed, my workplace will be improved, Starting With Me." www.startingwithme.com

On Swine Flu in our Homes

2009-04-30T20:36:00.004-05:00

There is a rush on surgical masks. The vice president is advising against frequenting enclosed spaces. Health departments are urging extra care in self-protection with hand washing. If we are vigilant we may yet stave off a pandemic - at least of the H1N1 variety.

But what of the moral pandemic we can't see? Are we being careful to keep our children from ingesting depictions of violence? Are we avoiding following the crowds who have made "business ethics" an oxymoron? Are we aggressively cleansing ourselves of the moral threats that are all around us?

The message about swine flu is clear - we must be proactive, vigilant and alert to prevent harm. The responsibility lies with each one of us.

So, too, with our ethics. We must actively take personal responsibility seriously or risk a pandemic that is far more debilitating than H1N1. Repeat after me: I will defeat the moral threats to my family and community - Starting With Me.

On Controlling Litter

2009-04-20T14:35:00.004-05:00

My absolutely favorite ethics blogger is Chris MacDonald, Ph.D., professor at St. Mary's University in Halifax, Canada. Add him to your must-read list.

His latest blog poses interesting questions about the responsibility for litter and the social contract that exists between buyer, seller and society.

Once more, there is an opportunity for each of us to take personal responsibility. It's as simple as, "Stop littering." If each of us looked seriously at our part in the litter problem and acted on it, litter would be greatly diminished. Of course, not all litter comes from individuals tossing candy wrappers or cigarette butts out of car windows, but we could at least make a difference.

Dispose of your own litter.
Use tamper-proof and wind-proof covers on garbage cans.
Decline the offer of the unneeded receipt or sack.
Clean out your pick-up/boat/trailer/back seat before heading down the road.
Shop retailers that encourage use of your own cup/container/grocery sack, etc.

Litter can be significantly reduced - Starting With Me.

Padding the Bill

2009-04-07T15:29:00.004-05:00

One of my clients was faced with this ethical question. Would he, as a subcontractor, do $500 worth of work for a contractor and pad the bill with an extra $200? Certainly, the contractor wants to mark up the subcontracted work, but is it right to ask the sub for a false bill? What would you do?

Both my client and I agreed, "No." While it is an accepted practice to mark up work and pass it on to the consumer, submitting falsified invoices crosses a line. The key question here is NOT whether charging the end user $200 extra is fair, it is whether lying to achieve an end is fair. If the contractor is not confident enough in his pricing policy to charge the mark up openly, then, I would suggest he is violating some of his own values as a provider.

Once again, openly asking questions about the values behind a situation and the effect on the stakeholders, provides a fairly straight-forward way to evaluate an ethical dilemma.

Fighting the Recession - Ethics Pays

2009-03-31T08:44:00.005-05:00

Add Walgreens to the list of companies who are stepping out and offering free services to people hit hardest by the economic downturn. Small, Main Street businesses, car manufacturers, and remodelers are joining a growing group of socially conscious providers of goods and services that are fighting back.

Oh, yes, there is a self-interest being served in many cases, but it just goes to show: Ethics Pays. Doing the right thing often costs in the short run, but always pays off in the long run. It may or may not be a financial pay off, but these companies will enjoy payback in many ways.

What about us individuals? What can each of us do to counteract the effect of the recession on our neighbors or on strangers? Will this be a time in our nation's history when stories of random acts of kindness will abound? Challenge yourself. Is there a debt you can forgive? Is there a chance to pay for someone else's groceries? Can you begin driving someone to work to help save them gas money?

All these actions help - not only others, but ourselves; and that's okay. Ethics pays. And that's how it was designed to be.

Give Back Part of YOUR Check?

2009-03-26T08:12:00.004-05:00

How much did you make last year? How much did you produce last year?

This blog has always been about challenging ourselves to look at our part in the ethical equation - Starting With Me. So, I try to take a look at daily events, news stories and issues and ask if there's something we can learn about our own values and behavior.

The conversation around the $3 dollar coffee cups right now often focuses on whether the AIG execs should have voluntarily or otherwise returned their bonuses. Turn the question around.

Did you truly earn all of your paycheck this year, last month, yesterday?
Did you commit not only to the company goals but to the common good?
Did you rise above your position's expectations and add value to your product or service?

I challenge all of us to take this pledge: Beginning today, my company is getting full value for the money it pays in salaries and bonuses - Starting With Me.

Governing by Anger

2009-03-24T13:54:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, President Obama indicated he would not support a bill forcing AIG executives to pay a special tax on their bonuses that was being spirited through Congress. His reason was that he did not want to govern by anger. Senators and representatives, having been embarassed by AIG's actions, were trying to "right the wrong" by doing an end run around ethics. Regardless of where you come down on whether AIG execs should have accepted bonuses, the legislature's attempt to take them back is an abuse of power and authority.

I hope that President Obama's stance will send a strong message for discussing the ethics of decision making in government.

Can the Stimulus Package Stimulate Our Ethics?

2009-03-13T20:26:00.007-05:00

The biggest challenge facing President Obama and the Congress is not engaging the clutch that will put our economy into gear, but rather engaging the heart and spirit of Americans in putting the stimulus package to work.

Already we are hearing of behind-the-scenes maneuvering by individuals, companies and local governments to put themselves in position to take advantage of the various incentives to advance their own needs. Homeowners who are current with their mortgages are complaining that those who aren't are getting help. A local county has already figured out how to use stimulus money to pay itself back for something it did two years ago. Corporations are scrambling to reinvent themselves to grab up as many stimulus dollars as they can.

The drive to fulfill self-interests will surely outweigh the intentions of creating something for the greater good, unless we begin asking questions; and that is the stuff of ethics.

Does it serve the common good for me to apply for mortgage relief when I really don't need it?
Does it serve the common good for us to simply refill county coffers rather than create new opportunities for employment?
Does it serve the common good to jump from provision of one set of products and services to another just because there is money there?

I know I'm not smart enough to ask all the questions that need to be asked. And I know the questions I have asked are much more complicated than I have presented. But I am smart enough to know that unless we ask the questions and discuss the answers publicly, we will likely miss the very opportunities President Obama and the Congress are trying to create.

On Loyalty to Your Employer

2009-03-12T09:03:00.001-05:00

We expect a lot from our employers. Fair wages, good benefits, opportunity for growth and development, and a satisfying work environment to name a few. Bur what is our obligation to our employer? What does employee loyalty look like? Caring about the product or service and not just the job. Sticking with the employer even in hard times. Resisting the temptation to job-hop for a few cents more per hour. Acting as an ambassador for the company’s line. Respecting the supervisors and co-workers. Treating the place as we would our own homes. Being good stewards of company property and equipment. Repeat this: Starting with me, loyalty in the workplace will work both ways. I will be supportive of my employer and my fellow employees. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Supporting the “Sin Industries”

2009-03-06T10:34:00.001-06:00

There’s a lot of debate in the investment community about supporting so-called “sin industries” – drugs, pornography, prostitution, gambling, etc. That debate is being played out on a large scale in corporations, funds and the stock market, but what about us? Do we support those industries either knowingly or unintentionally? Are we aware of what companies are represented in our mutual funds? Do we know if any of our retirment investements are supporting companies that promote gambling? Do we use products from companies tied to child labor? Do we purchase tickets from entertainment companies that produce pornography? Benign neglect and innocent ignorance are not ethical choices for us. Repeat this: Starting with me, investing will be more than a financial activity; it will reflect solid ethics and family values. I will start asking more questions. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Your Personal “Brand Promise”

2009-02-28T11:06:00.001-06:00

In marketing terms, “brand promise” refers to the consistency of quality and experience a customer can expect. A company with a strong brand promise has a clear, definable character in the mind of the customer. What is your personal brand promise? One of the most often used self-descriptors I hear is, “person of integrity.” Integrity and integral come from the same root, which means entire and whole. Does your brand promise extend throughout all your dealings? Do people know what you value by how you act? Is your character consistent? Is their experience with you positive and satisfying? Repeat this: Starting with me, people will be able to depend on my actions being consistent with my beliefs – my personal brand promise. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Living Your Values in the Workplace

2009-02-20T14:20:00.001-06:00

Minnesota has been at the center of a number of thorny issues around living our values in the workplace. Cab drivers refusing to carry people who carry alcohol. A grocery checkout refusing to touch meat packaging, and others. While this is a complicated issue, let me suggest a starting place for you and your values. First, choose a job which by its nature is consistent with your values. Second, within that job try to make reasonable accomodations with your employer for your personal beliefs. Third, be willing to pay a price for those accomodations (Such as working every Saturday while others work your Sundays). Finally, respect others, allowing them to act according to their beliefs. Repeat this: Starting with me, the workplace will be more than a job. It will be a part of who I am and what I believe. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Abuse of Employee Hours

2009-02-16T15:41:00.002-06:00

There are legitimate, mission-critical reasons for employing part-timers, seasonal employees, etc., but there are many companies who hire and schedule with the express purpose of avoiding paying full-time wages, benefits, raises, bonuses, and so on. It’s easy to see that such practices cheat the employees. But companies that do it are also cheating the consumer because they are using less skilled, experienced and committed employees. They are cheating themselves because they are sacrificing quality, stability, and morale for short term savings. And it cheats the rest of us by flooding the economy with goods and services at unrealistic, untenable prices. Are you one of those companies? Repeat this: Starting with me, I will treat employees as the most important resource my company and industry have for building a future. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Treating Vendors Fairly

2009-02-07T17:25:00.001-06:00

Net 30. Everyone has seen those words on an invoice. And we all know what it means. Credit has been extended for up to 30 days to allow us to arrange to pay the bill. All too often, the practice among businesses is to stretch out the terms. Many companies purposely extend to 60, 90 and even longer. They are, in effect, using their vendors to finance their own operations. In most cases it forces the vendors to dip into expensive lines of credit to pay for the labor or materials they used to supply the product. This is patently unfair – to everyone. It forces prices up for all of us. It reduces profits and therefore cheats employees out of raises and bonuses. Repeat this: Starting with me, vendor relations will be honest and respectful. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Paying Taxes

2009-02-03T07:09:00.002-06:00

"Pay me with cash and I’ll give you a special deal." "If you schedule a lunch meeting during your vacation, you can charge the whole trip off as a business expense." "Why don’t we just consider your use of the company truck as a little spiff – just between you and me." The common theme with all of these familiar practices is avoidance of taxes. That’s flat out stealing. As well as cheating your fellow citizens. And it’s illegal. I believe in good tax planning, but come on, pay what you owe and carry your share of the public burden. Repeat this: Starting with me, the privilege of living in a country with all its benefits will be something worth paying for.

On Doubling the Benefit

2009-01-28T13:15:00.001-06:00

It was a regular theme at our house: “If you’re going upstairs, take a pile of laundry with you.” My folks always taught us to try to get a double benefit from anything we did. Do you take full advantage of your activity at work? An efficient food server drops off the check at one table on his way back from pouring coffee at another. A productive salesperson works on her database while on hold. Voice mail, e-mail and messaging makes it possible to check on communication while in the taxi on the way to a meeting. Repeat this: Starting with me, good stewardship of time will double my worth for myself, my employer, my customers and my family. For more tips and information, visit www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Making What You’re Worth

2009-01-05T12:16:00.003-06:00

How much should I be making? Good question, as long as it’s asked along with several others. What are others in similar jobs making? Can this company compete at that level? What do I need to support myself? Am I living beyond my means? Am I in the right job or field considering what I’d like to be making? Have I figured what my benefits are worth in dollars? Can I put a value on the work environment compared to other companies? Do I have educational or experiential opportunities here that may be worth my accepting a lower salary? Repeat this: Starting with me, salary and benefits will be viewed from a broad perspective, meeting both my short and long term needs and those of my employer. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com/.

On Doing Whatever it Takes

2008-12-29T18:36:00.002-06:00

I polled a number of my clients and associates recently asking them, "What’s the most common ethical dilemma in your industry?" It boiled down to this: "Do whatever it takes to get the job."In some industries it was misrepresenting capabilities. In some it was promising one level of product or service and then switching to a lesser quality or quantity. In some it was low-balling bids and then charging extra for contract details. Many rationalize, “That’s just how you have to play the game.” If that’s true, then you are contributing to unethical (and maybe illegal) practices. Repeat this: Starting with me, quality, honesty and a fair price will be the standard for getting and keeping work. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to Your Own Ambitions

2008-12-21T12:59:00.002-06:00

The national conference is in less than a week. There is no way you can get the booth built, write the sales scripts, and prepare the session you’ve agreed to give. You have three customer call backs to do today and a demo that will take up most of tomorrow. Why did you ever agree to do the conference? Now you see nothing but stressful, sleepless nights ahead of you. Just say, “No.” There is a difference between setting stretch goals for yourself and being unrealistic. The former is a challenge. The latter is a lie. Not only does it set you up for failure but it misleads and disappoints the people who depend on you. Repeat this: Starting with me, honest and realistic self-assessment will determine schedules and obligations. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to Your Loved Ones

2008-12-08T13:04:00.002-06:00

The subject of far too many TV shows and movies is the dad (usually) who disappoints his child by promising to be there and then letting work get in the way. If this happens to you more than a few times a year, you have a balance problem. But short of that, there are times when you have to just say, “No” to your loved ones. Here’s how to do it with a minimum of damage. First anticipate, and don’t promise if you’re not sure you can deliver. Second, as early as possible, communicate directly with your loved one. Be honest and direct. Reaffirm your love. Third, after the missed event, inquire about it with genuine interest. Repeat this: Starting with me, family relationships will always be valued more highly than work. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to Coworkers

2008-12-03T15:48:00.002-06:00

“You wouldn’t mind covering for me on Tuesday, would you, buddy? I’ve got tickets to the big game and I’m due some sick time, anyway.” What do you do when faced with this dilemma? Assuming you would mind or that you’ve got too much of your own work to do to cover for your “buddy,” what do you do? Just say, “No.” Here’s how. “You know, I have just got too much scheduled for me to consider covering for you. I’m sorry I can’t help you out and I have to say, ‘No.’” Worried that you might ruin a friendship? Don’t be. A true friend doesn’t put you in the position of jeopardizing your own job for him. Repeat this: Starting with me, our work place will be one of integrity and personal responsibility. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Saying No to The Boss

2008-11-28T15:26:00.003-06:00

The secretary couldn’t take on even one more project. And his immediate supervisor still hasn’t dropped off the month-end correspondence. And yet he knows that two other department heads need some typing done before Monday, too. How is he going to get it all done? You know the end of this story. The secretary will cut corners, work all weekend, grow resentful, and eventually leave the job. Learn to Just say, “No” to the boss. Make a realistic assessment of what you can handle, and then respectfully ask which of the excess projects would the boss like you to push off to next week. The boss will appreciate your professionalism and you’ll save your job. Repeat this: Starting with me, work estimates will be handled with integrity and honesty. For more tips and information, visit http://www.swimstartingwithme.com/.

On Saying No to Sales People

2008-11-18T10:37:00.004-06:00

He looks once more at the telephone slip on his desk. The woman has called him three times since he met with her about her company’s product. He dreads telling her he’s not really interested. He pushes the slip aside, once again.

This scene repeats 1000s of times every day. Salespeople waste hours calling back prospects who are afraid to say, “No.” And those prospects endure a constant, nagging sense that they are doing wrong.

Just say, “No.” Save yourself stress and the salesperson time by being truthful about your intentions. Build relationships on integrity, not fear. Repeat this: Starting with me, salespeople will be treated with the same respect I expect from them. For more information go to http://www.swimstartingwithme.com.

On Being a Hypocrite

2008-09-03T14:15:00.005-05:00

Watching the small fringe group calling themselves anarchists trying to disrupt the RNC in St. Paul brought to mind how easy it is to be hypocritical. The dictionary definition of anarchism is "a belief in the abolition of all government and the organization of society on a voluntary, cooperative basis." (Concise Oxford Dictionary, 10th Edition) Our society is built on freedoms that include the right to hold beliefs contrary to the status quo and to speak them out. The message of the anarchist activity in St. Paul is a direct contradiction to what they say they believe.

The message is that people are NOT free to speak and act as they believe, otherwise, why try to keep the delegates from reaching the convention?

The message is that organization of society is NOT voluntary or cooperative, otherwise, why try to keep people from what they believe is right?

The message is that some form of government IS needed to protect private citizens from terroristic acts of violence that the anarchists clearly perpetrated.

But this ought to be a lesson to all of us to look carefully at how our behavior aligns or doesn't align with our beliefs.The very essence of ethics is to articulate a clear value system and act in accordance with it.

Repeat this: Starting with me, I will examine my intended behaviors BEFORE acting to see that they are not hypocritical.

On Interrelational Ethics

2008-08-26T11:54:00.000-05:00

Here’s a thorny ethical dilemma: Legalism vs. Grace. Law and order demand that we hold people accountable for their actions. Mercy and forgiveness suggest that we give people a break. Are the two incompatible? Ignoring wrongdoing is a slippery slope, but punishment is not necessarily “justice.”

Consider this: ethics suggests an ongoing, open dialogue about the competing values we see among individuals and societies. To coin a phrase, we need to be about “interrelational ethics.”

Repeat this: Starting with me, morals will be tested in relationship with others. I will be open to the give and take of dialogue.

On Striving for Win-Win

2008-08-16T11:39:00.000-05:00

Stephen Covey, in 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, names this habit: “Win-Win or No Deal.” His point is that a mutually beneficial outcome is always possible if we are willing to work for it. While his book is not about ethics, per se, this is a highly moral stand. It assumes that the needs of the other person are as valuable as our own. Covey states that people who are highly effective insist on meeting others’ needs as well as their own. If we were all to take this stand, the whole issue of ethics in the marketplace would take on an entirely different tone.

Repeat this: Starting with me, win-win will be the standard for behavior. I will work hard for that outcome.

On Valuing Contentment

2008-08-12T14:08:00.000-05:00

Is enough ever enough? Do we even know what the word “contentment” means today? The people I have most admired in my life were those who knew how to be content in all circumstances. They exhibit a peace, a calmness that I want to achieve. Oh, don’t misunderstand. They aren’t lazy. They still have goals and ambitions and passion. But they are not driven by those. They are fed by something inside, something more important than achievement. They have found contentment. They have moved from making needs-based decisions to making values-based decisions.

Repeat this: Starting with me, contentment will be a worthwhile goal. I will be driven by intrinsic values, rather than externals.

On Being an Environment Steward

2008-08-06T20:54:00.001-05:00

“Paper or plastic?” That question opened great debates in the last decade on our personal responsibility for the environment. Technology has since changed the equation, but we are still faced daily with decisions that affect the stewardship of the resources we have. What can the rallying cry be today? How can we raise awareness of the environmental issues involved in our everyday decisions? What will gas prices have to be before Americans begin to seriously conserve fuel? What species will disappear before we take responsibility for our planet?

Repeat this: Starting with me, stewardship starts with me. I will not wait any longer to make a difference.

On Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

2008-08-01T17:25:00.000-05:00

Is there really such a thing as a superstar? A sports team doesn’t win based on one player. A business doesn’t excel based on one person’s service. A family doesn’t thrive based on one member’s efforts. The truth is, credit is due to the group. In our individualistic society, we want to name heroes. But in actuality, unless we are working together, we will all fall.

Repeat this: Starting with me, credit for success will be given where it is due. I will neither hog the limelight, nor create individual heroes.

On Seeing the Big Picture (Long Term vs. Short Term)

2008-07-29T17:13:00.000-05:00

It’s a constant struggle. Doesn’t matter if you’re the CEO of a large corporation, or if you’re a person with a few bucks in a mutual fund. Which takes precedent, the long term or the short? If you only manage for short term profit, you will destroy the sustainability of your investment. If you ignore the short term you may not be around long enough to enjoy the eventual outcome. There is no simple answer. In fact, the natural tension between the long and short term expose the values which determine our ethics.

Repeat this: Starting with me, big picture questions will be a platform for examining values and improving ethics.

On Speaking Positively

2008-07-23T18:44:00.001-05:00

Come on, I know you heard it from your parents or teachers: “If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all.” That’s good advice with immense implications for ethical behavior. Speaking positively creates an atmosphere of hope, of safety, and of trust. These are all vital to being able to openly explore moral issues and our resulting behaviors. Where negative attitudes are the norm, people expect everything to be wrong. Negative talk seems constantly judgmental. Is that you? Is that your workplace? Stop it.

Repeat this: Starting with me, there will be a positive outlook around here. I will speak the good word.

On Taking the First Step to Peace

2008-07-14T10:29:00.000-05:00

Who should take the first steps toward peace? Do we demand an apology before we are willing to forgive? Is it the victor or the loser who extends the olive branch? The answer depends on what we are really after. If we value principles above positions, if we value cooperation above justification, if we value being together above being “right,” then taking the first step toward peace is the first step toward peace.

Repeat this: Starting with me, peace will be the desired outcome. I will swallow my pride and take the first step.

On Rest and Vacation

2008-07-10T12:21:00.000-05:00

Did you ever think of “rest” as a moral issue? Probably not. But rest is important to maintaing a consistent ethical stance in everything we do. When we are stressed, tired, weak or sick, our decisions will tend to be based on our own needs first. It’s the human trait of self-preservation. But ethical behavior is based on recognizing and respecting the needs of others, as well as ourselves.

Repeat this: Starting with me, rest, vacation, and time off will be valued as a moral imperative. I will keep myself prepared to make sound ethical decisions.

On Submission to Authority

2008-07-06T20:00:00.001-05:00

In our society, submission seems to have a negative connotation, but it simply means “to place oneself under authority.” Note where the power lies – in the one submitting. Our whole society is built on submission. We have chosen to place ourselves under the authority of our own elected officials. We exercised the power to put them in authority. Think about this. Every time we commit an act that is illegal, we erode their authority, and at the same time, weaken our own power. Can you grasp the dilemma here?

Repeat this: Starting with me, submission is a virtue, not a dirty word. I will respect my country’s laws and those who make them.

On Valuing Equally vs. Treating Equally

2008-06-26T18:51:00.000-05:00

My mom believed in treating her kids equally. At Christmas, she’d buy all four of us adult kids the same present. We all got a sweater, or we all got a talking thermometer – whether we needed or wanted one or not. It was probably my own fault. I can remember as a kid complaining that my sister got something that I didn’t.

But I never really wanted to be treated equally, just valued equally. Do you know the difference? In an effort to value people equally, do you miss seeing them as individuals?

Repeat this: Starting with me, equality will take on new meaning. I will value people equally and treat them individually.

On Making Assumptions – Check the Facts/Motives

2008-06-16T15:59:00.001-05:00

There’s an old saying about the word “assume.” Suffice it to say, making assumptions often results in misunderstandings. Assuming we know someone else’s motives destroys any chance of getting to know and trust one another. Building an ethical environment demands open dialogue based on authenticity. We can’t know what people are thinking and feeling unless we ask them. So ask.

Repeat this: Starting with me, the only assumption that is okay is that of assuming I don’t know others’ motives. I will ask directly.

On Projection – Taking Out Frustration on the Wrong Person

2008-06-13T13:48:00.000-05:00

When I took psychology I learned that projection is transferring our feelings about one person onto another. Once a therapist identified projection, the patient could begin looking at the real target of emotions.

Why is that important to us in the workplace? We get upset with someone or something, but instead of dealing with it directly, we project our feelings somewhere else. The danger here is twofold. One is that the new target is getting dumped on unfairly. The other is that we never really deal honestly with the problem.

Repeat this: Starting with me, there will be honesty in the workplace. I will learn to deal directly and respectfully with my feelings.

On Self Centeredness

2008-06-06T16:02:00.000-05:00

In the year 1530, Copernicus proved that the earth revolved around the sun. Preposterous! I know it revolves around me. At least that’s the way most of us behave. We tend to be very self-centered. How does that affect our behavior? We begin to think we are entitled. Others should respect me. I should make more money. My time should be more important than others’. We begin to act as if we were more important than anyone else. And that leads to unethical and immoral behaviors.

Repeat this: Starting with me, Copernicus will be a sobering reminder. I will see myself in proper perspective with regards to others.

On Turning the Other Cheek

2008-06-04T10:49:00.000-05:00

We’ve all heard the old “turn the other cheek” philosophy, but does that make any sense in today’s world? Consider this familiar scenario. I’m driving along. A guy cuts me off. “He can’t do that!” I speed around him and hit my brakes. He tries to force me off the road. Et cetera. Had I simply “turned the other cheek,” countless headaches would have been avoided. I may have lost 3-5 seconds in my commute, but I’d be alive and less stressed. (And by the way, if I were honest, have I not done the same thing to someone else? If only accidentally?)

Repeat this: Starting with me, two wrongs will never make a right. I will not meet violence with violence.

On Loving the Unlovable

2008-05-29T12:44:00.001-05:00

Admit it. There are some people you find very hard to like – much less love. You probably try to avoid being around them. Now let me say this: “That’s just wrong.” Is someone any less of a person because she was born into a poor family? Because he has a chemical imbalance in his brain? Because she made some bad choices last year, or even last week?

The Golden Rule says, treat others as you would like to be treated. I don’t want to be marginalized, shunned, excluded. I want to be seen as a person, not a circumstance.

Repeat this: Starting with me, all people will be respected for who they are, not what they do.

On Servant Leadership

2008-05-25T19:46:00.000-05:00

Servant Leadership is a popular concept these days. What does it really mean? It means putting the needs of others before my own. This is not entirely unselfish. It’s a fact of human nature that unless and until others’ needs are met, they cannot work together to meet the needs of the organization. Maslow taught that people’s needs have to be met at basic levels before they can be effective.

How does this apply to you? You don’t have to be a manager or an elected official to be a servant leader. Repeat this: Starting with me, effective leadership will be in meeting the needs of others. I will put the needs of others before my own.

On Determining Truth

2008-05-13T14:03:00.000-05:00

Okay, let’s get a little philosophical. When it comes to morality, is there really a “right” and a “wrong?” In our democratic society, we tend to decide everything by majority rule. Are there certain things that ought not be put to a vote? Are there moral absolutes?

These are tough questions. But you must wrestle with the answers. Every time you make a decision, you are basing it on some moral belief. Have you truly examined that belief? I believe there are absolute truths and that belief colors my every action.

Repeat this: Starting with me, the basis for moral decisions will not be taken lightly. I will clearly define my beliefs and behave accordingly.

On Situational Ethics

2008-05-10T10:44:00.001-05:00

The term “situational ethics” suggests that the morality of an act is defined by the situation. One’s actions are either right or wrong depending on the circumstances. This is a philosophical issue way bigger than we can deal with here, but from a practical viewpoint, let me ask you: Are you comfortable with others making decisions involving you on what they think is right in that time and place? Decisions about your money? Your kids? Your faith? Your future? Think about it. It’s a constantly moving target.

Repeat this: Starting with me, the moral base for decisions must be clearly stated. I will not allow people to make decisions based on their perceptions of a situation.

On Settling for Second Best

2008-05-07T15:26:00.001-05:00

Is settling for second best ever enough? Just the very word “settling” suggests a surrender of some sort. And “second best?” Well, you decide. In practical sense, I accept that I will not always achieve the “best” outcome, but I resolve never to settle for second best. To do so means I will always be selling someone short, I will not be delivering what I am truly capable of, I will always be falling short of my implied or explicit promise to others.

Repeat this: Starting with me, second best will never be enough. I will always keep working to achieve the best.

On Inaction – Ignoring Ethical Issues

2008-05-01T10:33:00.000-05:00

“The land of the free and the home of the brave.” It’s no accident that Francis Scott Key linked those two thoughts. Living in freedom requires bravery. There are always those who would attack freedom – from within as well as without. Perhaps one of the most dangerous, insidious attacks on freedom is that of compromising the moral principles that undergird freedom. Bravery requires us to speak up. Ignoring ethical issues in our society contributes to the erosion of freedom.

Repeat this: Starting with me, ethics will be worth defending. I will not keep silent when I see moral principles challenged.

On Facing Conflict (Not Ignoring It)

2008-04-29T12:01:00.000-05:00

Why do so many people avoid conflict? For most personality styles, it’s uncomfortable, and culturally it’s often viewed as violent, or at least as an emotional struggle. But conflict is not by its nature a negative thing. If you care enough about a belief, you should be willing to confront those people or things which challenge your belief. Do this with an equal dose of humility and assertiveness, and the result is sure to be positive. “Confront” comes from a French word which means, “with common borders.” What a positive way to look at conflict.

Repeat this: Starting with me, exploring common borders is a constructive way to view conflict. I will care enough to confront my own beliefs.

On Taking Bribes

2008-04-17T13:42:00.000-05:00

Bribery. There’s a word for it in almost every language, past and present. In some countries there are laws against bribery; in others, it’s an accepted way of doing business. Even if it were legal, though, I submit it would be unethical. By definition, bribery is awarding favor in exchange for a reward. The focus isn’t on the quality of the service but on the quantity of the reward. Bribery bars qualified players from the field and favors the wealthiest participants. But bribery will go on as long as there is someone willing to pay or accept a bribe.

Repeat this: Starting with me, bribery will not be tolerated at any level, for any reason.

On Labeling – It’s for Products, Not People

2008-04-14T12:24:00.000-05:00

Truth in Labeling Laws help assure us that a product is what it is advertised to be. No such laws exist in the human realm. We label people incorrectly all the time. I’m not referring to nasty names or racial slurs. I’m talking about the ways we put people in boxes. “John is straight-laced. Susan is old school.” This presents a moral dilemma. Do we allow people to be who they really are, or do we force our own prejudices on them?

Repeat this: Starting with me, people will be encouraged to be all that they can be – I will not put them in box of my own making.

On Contributing to Prejudice

2008-04-07T21:48:00.000-05:00

“I’m not prejudiced, but did you hear the joke about...?” Subtle, unintentioned prejudice is more difficult to deal with than outright bigotry. At least with a bigot you know where he stands. All of us have prejudices. The trick is to know ourselves well enough to recognize them – and then refuse to act on them. Please don’t knowingly or unknowingly be a contributor to prejudice. Be vigilant and continuously ask yourself what your true feelings are.

Repeat this: Starting with me, behavior based on prejudice is a thing of the past. I will admit to my own biases and refuse to act on them.