Dec 27, 2022
BUSINESS MATTERS: Taking The High Road
By Glen J. Dalakian Sr.
Although we might not always see them, opportunities still abound all around us – some easier to chase than others and some more long-term in their reward where perseverance is the only path to success. Quick-reward scenarios can also pop up at times, and wisdom is needed to know (to the best of our ability) which to pursue and which to ignore.
One question that can be powerful for us to follow is, “Can I do this with integrity and in the knowledge that it is the right thing to do?” All too often, this is a question that is ignored, and the end gains are the focus with little attention paid to the sacrifices needed to be made to get the brass ring. I’m not talking about hard work or years of commitment or honest risk here (all of which are part of the game), but our goals should include taking the high road in every aspect of life, including business.
One thing I am sure of is that if you take the high road every time, your conscience will be clear and you will be comforted in knowing that you kept your integrity and you can hold your head high, even if things did not work out as well as you had hoped. The alternative has crushed many and left people in a dark place that has resonated in damage to their family, friends and businesses that are not easy to recover from.
When considering a new opportunity, carefully draw on your experience and the wisdom of mentors or other people you respect. Consider these points as part of your decision-making process:
1) Will I need to compromise my beliefs, character, integrity or other important convictions to succeed in this area?
2) Do I have the personal and resource bandwidth to take on this new endeavor?
3) Will the rewards outweigh the sacrifices that will need to be made along the way?
4) Have I consulted with those I feel have wisdom and insights that I may not yet possess?
5) Do I have a realistic time frame for how long it will take to consider this a profitable course to follow?
6) Do I have an exit plan and a timeline to implement if this does not work out as expected?
Good opportunities followed well can prove beneficial to those who persevere. Every business owner knows not all we do will succeed, but trying when the time is right and the signs point to “Go” can be fun and exciting. Be sure that whatever final decision you make, you keep your integrity and honor intact. This will earn you the respect of your peers and give you the foundation to build on the next opportunity that comes your way.
