“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets.” – Jesus (Matthew 7:12)
The Golden Rule. We can all repeat it to others, and we are quick to point out when someone violates that rule, but how much conscious effort do we spend trying to apply it on the job? What type of ownership do we take of this tenet of our faith?
Each of us knows how things at work are when the Golden Rule is not applied. Unfortunately this occurs all too often. It is like many adults forget the Rule at the door or think it only applies to kids at Sunday school.
Now take a moment and imagine how our companies, industries and culture would benefit from a more intense application of the Lord’s directive. Start by considering how you want to be treated in the office or on the job site:
- You want to feel appreciated.
- You want to be listened to.
- You want your calls returned.
- You want to be given time to respond to e-mails and other inquiries.
- You want the sovereignty of your personal space maintained.
- You want to be asked, not told, when addressed by your peers.
- You want to feel a part of something important.
- You want camaraderie.
- You want to always be treated with dignity and respect.
Some Questions
Now it is examination of conscience time – when in the past week have you not given these luxuries to others at work? Do you play favorites? We all do. It is fallen human nature. Being patient and kind (i.e. like Jesus) does not mean you have no boundaries, but it does require us to stretch ourselves and consider those on the other side of those boundary lines.
On your way into work, think about your co-workers, bosses, customers and suppliers. Regardless of your position at your company, you can lead by example. Let us look at the list again with a missionary and leadership mindset.
You want to feel appreciated – Have you thanked people lately?
You want to be listened to – do you grunt while staring at your monitor or look at them and give your undivided attention?
You want your calls returned – we all have calls to return. Remember them the next time you wonder why your own phone is not ringing.
You want to be given time to respond to e-mails and other inquiries – practicing patience with others will help you in immeasurable ways.
You want the sovereignty of your personal space maintained – someone’s desk, cube or office is their home-away-from-home.
You want to be asked, not told, when addressed by your peers – the word please is powerful, and a best kept secret!
You want to feel a part of something important – it is not just “what” we do but “why” that impacts our corporations and organizations.
You want camaraderie – we are all in this together so let us act like it.
You want to always be treated with dignity and respect – each one of us was made on-purpose, a part of God’s plan.
To sum up, as a Catholic professional, what can you do today, to keep someone else from still wanting these things tonight?
2 thoughts on “The Golden Rule In The Workplace”
Thank you so much John!
Love this post. So often I find myself judging others on how they treat their employees, but rarely do I turn the lense around on myself.
Keep up the great work posting this amazing content. The world would be a better place if we all read it and took it to heart!