Is Profit the ultimate measure of success?
What matters most to your business? Is profit the only determining factor of success? The traditional model of business has always been maximizing profit, but business has an impact on people’s lives other than money, what if we didn’t have to choose profit over people? A business must be profitable to stay alive; however, there are so many other ways that our companies can operate to be a force for good in the world. When profit becomes the sole determination of achievement, we miss the multi-dimensional benefits of business. In the race to make the most money, very often integrity becomes the runner up.
"God cares about honesty in the workplace, your business is His business."
You Can Win and Still Lose
Mark 8:36 asks “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?” This verse has endured as a reminder that we can’t put a price tag on what matters most. This idea led me to think differently about integrity in the workplace. As I mentioned in the story above, I know that the growth of my company is more of a result of honesty and integrity than slick, corner cutting tactics. The lesson taught in Proverbs 13:6 has been my experience:
“Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.”
Proverbs 13:6
Thinking for a Change
When I think practically about integrity in the workplace it has to first start with me. The way I think about integrity and its’ priority in my life will determine my actions. It is important then, that my thinking is right. The bible is my source and guide for right thinking. I collected some of my favorite scriptures on integrity (you can download them here,) this is a great way to start meditating on God’s way of living. My example and tolerance for dishonesty sets a tone and standard in all of my interactions with people. When that attitude is caught and upheld by co-workers we start to create a culture of integrity.
