There are some purists out there who might say that if you have to ask the question there’s not a chance in that very warm place below that you will ever understand the answer. Still, I am more broad-minded, and believe that even the comatose can learn to live and understand again! The following thoughts apply to any job, at least to my demented mind. They reflect an appropriate attitude and that is the point (or the rub if you prefer Shakespearean terms.).
Seriously folks, it doesn’t matter what you do for a living; professionalism refers to HOW you do it. Ethics apply to all forms of employment and the lack of a moral backbone affects everyone in the job chain, even if the ramifications of a job poorly or carelessly done are not easily seen or identified.
Case in point. For many years the MacDonald fast food chain was number one food and sales wise. Suddenly, about two years ago, their sales dropped. To their credit, they found out why. Not only did they make changes on the menu to provide healthier choices, but they also reevaluated their staff. It seems that many customers felt the wait staff treated them poorly. That, coupled with high cholesterol food choices, pushed their popularity downwards, which reflected in the sale of their stock. But it’s all different now because they honestly evaluated the situation and did their best to correct it.
Also take the case of a maintenance worker who does not properly wash a floor in an office. Clients as well as CEOs can slip and fall to serious injury all because one person in the chain failed to do their job correctly.
Everyone’s job serves a purpose and is important in the employment chain. If you are unhappy with your work, it is within your power to change it. So many people remain stuck in unfulfilling positions for many reasons, and as such don’t see themselves as part of a much bigger picture.
Just remember that no matter who you are or what you do for a living, your ethics, like your slip will always show. (If you are a guy, then something else will show.) They will shine through your actions, whether you want them to or not.
It is always wrong to steal and deceive and backstab; I don’t care what the nature of the business is. (Even gossip-columnists have an honor code; not to mention thieves.)
So take stock of yourself in a different light, as what you have to offer is far more than that which floats upon the surface. And remember…
Keep swimming!