I was recently offered an attractive sum of money for a short term business need. This was a referral from an existing client. Without going into the messy details, it was a “slippery” opportunity that would have been an insult to my values, and objectively required a compromise of my integrity.I’m embarrassed to say I struggled for a few hours over my decision. Should I do it? I told him what my values are and that I vehemently disagree with his approach. So am I “in the clear” with my own integrity? We could use the money. It would make for a really nice summer vacation, as one way our family could benefit from the sale.
Then the other side of me spoke up. How could you do something that is so against what you believe and stand for? How would you feel if your clients and friends knew? Can you “meet your maker” one day in clear conscience?
Back and forth the two arguments went.
I checked in with two of my key personal advisors to discuss this decision.
Ultimately, I decided I could not face friends, clients or Maker, without knowing I had compromised my values and integrity. I declined the opportunity.
The peace I felt afterward, and the clarity and conviction with which I immediately viewed and approached my business were far more “lucrative,” in a non-monetary currency, than I could ever have gained financially, had I engaged in a business opportunity that asked me to compromise my integrity.
Question: Are you ever tempted to compromise your values and integrity for the sake of financial gain? Especially in this market and economy, does the promise of financial gain tug at you? Or are you staying true to what you know is right?
As my husband often says, “There is no softer pillow than a clear conscience.”
