Do you have a personal ethics statement, detailing how you deal with the world? I recommend adopting one. It can provide a touchstone in times of stress, a compass to keep you headed in the right direction.
Here's my personal list. What's on your list?
Ethical values:
- Tell the truth.
- Promise less, deliver more.
- As much as possible, be transparent and open.
- Don't carry tales - maintain confidentiality.
- Do unto others as they would have me do unto them.
- Trust early.
- Avoid waste.
- If it needs to be done, do it.
- Do no harm.
- Don't break the law.
And a few ethics specific to my coaching practice:
- Don't recommend products or services the client does not need.
- Disclose conflicts of interest.
- Don't use confidential information for personal gain.
- Maintain accurate records and billing.
And a few principles for a productive life:
- Begin with the customer.
- Value each person I encounter as an individual.
- Focus on strengths, manage weaknesses.
- Ya gotta give to get.
- Listen first.
- Embrace disagreement.
- Go see for myself.
[Image j0409268.jpg downloaded from Microsoft Office Online]