The Price of Right – Negative Consequences for Positive Actions
Nice guys finish last. That statement sounds like fingernails running down a chalkboard to me! Newton’s law of motion applies to our behaviors and choices as well and nowhere in that law does it say for a good action there is a good reaction. There is a price for everything, including doing the right thing … ask Jesus. We live in a reward-driven society where, like dogs, we expect a treat or praise for our good behaviors.
Your Ethical Behavior is Priceless
I have lost … well I would rather say that I’ve paid (and will continue to pay) heavily for doing the right thing. The only regret I have were the times I felt bad for doing the right thing. Doing the right thing can and sometimes will cost you:
- Friends
- Family members
- Jobs
- Relationships
Change Your Mindset
The only thing owed that you will most definitely cash in is death. No one owes you anything for doing the right thing … not even a thank you. Instead of feeling stunned and cheated, take a more proactive stance by changing your mindset.
- Be prepared. Do the right thing (with no hesitation) but play out the consequences so that you can be prepared.
- Think about your delivery. There are times doing the right thing may hurt someone you love. It is okay to prepare her and be there for her. Let me add that there are times that I don’t mind a perpetrator to be uncomfortable. This is the case with sexual perpetrators.
- Grow up. Don’t let your naive thinking blindside you. The real world is made of people with different morals, beliefs and values. Breaking news: There is no Santa Claus, most reality shows aren’t real and not everyone is like you.
- Do the right thing for the right reason. If you are doing the “right” thing just because it works in your best interest, then you certainly have no reason to be mad if it does not serve you well.
- Get over yourself. You are not a circus clown nor are you an animal doing tricks for treats. Your value system includes those things that you will do despite the consequence.
Listen, this year is all about you dancing like no one is watching. You can’t expect the world to watch or even to applaud. Your values are priceless and there is no cap on the cost of doing the right thing.
September 26, 2014 @ 6:50 pm
Very eloquently stated. ♡ my panamamacita.
September 28, 2014 @ 5:36 pm
My blogs remind me of who I am and what I am about. Especially when the slap stings!