‘…. We shall not flag nor fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France and on the seas and oceans; we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air. We shall defend our island whatever the cost may be; we shall fight on beaches, landing grounds, in fields, in streets and on the hills. We shall never surrender…carry on the struggle, until, in Gods good time, the New World, with all it power and might, steps forth to the rescue and the liberation of the Old.’ - Winston Churchill
Principles have the power to change the world, as we know it.
If it wasn’t for Winston Churchill’s unshakeable belief in the principles of strength, endurance, perseverance and justice that he inspired and roused up amongst the Allied Forces and citizens he commanded, we would be living in an entirely different reality today.
Our principles are the unshakeable rules we have about our life, choices and how we interact with others. Just as a leader’s high standing in industry and community is usually built on their principles of excellence and their outstanding record of achievement, your reputation is built on the principles you adhere to.
They become the cornerstones of your brand and reputation.
Treating others with compassion, obeying the law, respecting your elders, being loyal to your partner, always loving and protecting your children – are other examples of principles in your life.
They shouldn’t be easily shaken, no matter what’s thrown at them.
They’re not driven by personality or popularity or even public sentiment.
They’re based on a foundation of a deeply personal revelation that they are vitally right – for you.
Principles undergird your actions.
When you see a CEO accept a multi million dollar payout while his staff is facing job cuts and layoffs, know that his principles, or lack thereof are blinding him from his conscience.
Conversely when you see a business owner leave millions to his loyal employees and guarantee their future and those of their children and grandchildren, know that they too are being led by an unfailing unshakeable commitment to do the right thing.
Insight Inspiration:
While it’s great to have principles, one of the most important aspects to remember is that not everyone’s principles are the same.
We all have different convictions and respecting someone else’s immoveable principles is a major factor in becoming a respectful personal or corporate brand.
This includes respecting others’ choices, their lifestyles and withholding judgement and opinion unless you’re asked for advice.
When do you receive a request for advice, don’t diminish the principle in question.
Seek knowledge and respond with respect and wisdom on the matter.
And sometimes choose to not say anything at all.
The seeker of that advice may just come to their own peace about the situation in their own time.
Think on it.
