Integrity

As defined by Merriam-Webster, integrity is the “firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values”. Integrity defines us as human beings. Will we stand up and do the right thing? That question may draw an irrevocable “yes” until we are put in a situation that puts our integrity to the test. Have you ever had your integrity tested? Was your reaction favorable, or with the benefit of hindsight, do you wish you would have reacted differently?

With the latest media frenzy engulfing the Penn State community and questioning the integrity of the university’s leaders, we are once again surrounded by a transgression so disappointing it is gut-wrenching. I believe we have just begun to learn the details of this case and I certainly am not ready to offer public comment, but I am disheartened by the scandal that is rocking a rural community and challenging the slogan, Success With Honor, which the university has lived by for many years.

Although we may feel defeated once again, we can turn it around and use this time as a teaching moment for ourselves, our kids and our business. We can evaluate if we are conducting ourselves in the way we had always intended. Are we teaching our kids to live ethically and morally? Have we created a business culture, or do we work in a business culture, that encapsulates our personal ethics and values? I have devoted my website, www.champagneb2b.com, to further explore these topics in the Finance, Management & Family & Business Life pages.

Unfortunately, many of these discussions can raise more questions than answers. Being prepared to handle these difficult situations can help us deal with the issues when they arise. Try to avoid crisis management in your business and personal life by preparing for the rewarding, as well as challenging, times. Of course, you can’t always prepare for the major blows in life. How we react to those often define us as human beings. Try to take the time to think before you act!

Doing something is better than doing nothing. Initiating a quick sincere response will go a long way in re-establishing credibility to yourself and your organization. Remember, in this media-saturated world, if you don’t respond, someone else will do it for you!

I leave you with a video of Success With Honor for you to draw your own opinions on whether the university should be judged on the actions (or in-actions) of a few, or by the devout action of many?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vI0Xv7HuUHE&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

What do you think?