Doing the right thing means that you act under the guidance of moral principles, like honesty, decency, and moral courage. However, this can sometimes be challenging for the following reasons:
- You may have to forgo a reward or advantage instead of winning by doing the wrong thing.
- You must follow your conscience to do what is right over what is wrong; or over what is primarily done for the sake of expediency and short-term gain.
- You must face the truth, even when the truth is uncomfortable.
- You must be able to say “no,” and remain firm even in the face of pressures to act unethically.
Getting Personal
Have you ever had to say “No” to others in order for you to do what you believed was the right thing, in disagreement with what others wanted you to do. Was this an easy or difficult experience? Would you do it again?
“Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.” (W. Clement Stone, American businessman, author)
“Sometimes it is better to lose and do the right thing than to win and do the wrong thing.” (Tony Blair, former British Prime Minister)
Doing the right thing can get complicated. Check it out.
**** Top of post image (Do the Right Thing) by Nia Gordon, from niagee.com
