7 Virtues: The Case for a Corporate Culture Reboot
Photo by Bluehouse Skis
Getting ahead, winning, triumphant, victorious, rock star. These are words we have historically heard in our corporations, our organizations, in politics and in the news around the world. They embody the traditional philosophy of individual success in our society. They reflect a culture of competition, achievement, ambition.
Yet, today during a worldwide pandemic that challenges all of us, this leadership profile driven by a heavy dose of ego just flat out doesn’t work.
Truth be told, it may have served American business well in the past. But today it is time to acknowledge there is a better way where the ideas of the team are front and center, where the collective drives achievement, where the front line workers deserve respect, honor and celebration, not just the lone rock star.
We see this philosophy embodied in the Benefit Corporation model revolving around doing good for the commons. The power of collaboration and generosity for the betterment of all. And it is what will succeed in problem-solving the crisis of COVID-19.
With that said, we believe there has never been a more relevant time to reboot business culture to one of a social sharing economy.
In Spanish they say, “juntos podemos,” together we can.
In Africa, they use freely the concept of Ubuntu, “I am because, you are.”
It’s about less ego and more authenticity. It’s about humility and being other oriented versus self-oriented.
It starts with the Golden Rule we learned as children, and in the workplace it is embodied in the idea of Servant Leadership.
And it all serves as a strong reminder to live the 7 virtues outlined in religions around the world throughout time:
1. Faith - belief in the right things
2. Hope - taking a positive future view that good will prevail
3. Charity - concern for and active helping of others
4. Fortitude - never giving up
5. Justice - being fair and equitable with others
6. Prudence - care and frugality
7. Temperance - moderation of needed things and abstinence for things not needed.
The Japanese Bushido reflects these same tenants and are defined as Right Decisions, Valor, Benevolence, Respect, Honesty, Honor, and Loyalty. And St. Paul proclaimed the most important virtues as Faith, Hope and Love, and placed love as the greatest virtue...and this is love for ALL!
Never has there been a time to practice and embody these virtues than now.
As we cope with the pandemic and support all the brave individuals on the front lines, from healthcare professionals to postal workers to grocery store clerks, as well as those workers facing unemployment as our nations close down, it is time to think of others. To reclaim the spirit of giving and be “other driven.”
It’s time to reclaim the seven virtues – not for self but for others and the greater good.
~benefitcorporationsforgood.com~