WALK AWAY WHEN YOU MUST!

"Promise me, son, not to do the things I've done.
Walk away from troubles if you can.
It won't mean your weak if you turn the other cheek.
I hope you're old enough to understand.
Son, you don't have to fight to be a man."

Sounds familiar? Kenny Rogers 's story-telling through songs is impeccable. Gets me down the memory lane every time I hear this song. 

This article has nothing to do with silly fights and adolescent baptism of fire. This is about turning the other way when presented with situations that not only put you in a disadvantaged position but also jeopardizes your future ability to exercise your leadership and overcome challenges.

Whether you own a business, manage a million-dollar project, or run a team in your department, there are times when you are confronted with an ethical situation or a gray issue. When in doubt, it is time to reflect on the following:

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Am I acting in good faith, being firm about my intentions, objectives, and desires on this specific situation?

​Is the other party acting in good faith? Are they acting and behaving consistently with their intentions and objectives on the issue? Are they pushing too hard, delaying, or withholding important information? 

 Am I presented with a situation that is unscrupulous, way out of the normal bounds of ethics or appropriate behavior? Is the deal too good to be true or laced with conditions that will undermine my sense of control and options?

If you have answered no or maybe to the last two questions, walk away from any situation that will unnecessarily create entanglements, compromises, and deals that are not in your best interests to pursue. Find an adviser who can sort things out for you and better yet delay the decision until you have some clarity around the issues that you want to resolve.

"Walk away from troubles, son..."
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