I really like this time of year. Where I live, it’s not too hot and winter has finally passed. I like the outdoors so I jump at every opportunity to do outdoor activities. I even find yard work therapeutic.
Last week, I was picking up some items for a project at one of the national chains and an incident occurred that got me thinking. The way the stored worked was that you paid inside and then picked up your items outside. I was in a rush so when I went outside and noticed the attendant busy loading up someone else, I loaded the things I had paid for in my car. When I was done, I walked over to the attendant to show him my receipt. Before I reached him, he waived me away telling me he trusted me and to have a good day.
Afterwards, I was telling a friend about how long it took me at the store and had I waited for the attendant, I would have been late for a meeting. My friend pointed out that I could have taken more than what I paid for without anyone knowing. I replied that I would know, and that’s what matters.
Many motivational programs teach you how to tell yourself that you’re a good person, worthy of wealth, etc… But in order for it to work, you have to believe deep down inside that you are a good person and worthy. If there are things you’ve done in the past (or are still doing), then you need to get past them and move on before you’ll believe you’re a good person.
That’s why when you’re faced with opportunities to do things that are illegal or unethical, it’s best to not do them. All it’ll do if give you extra baggage and lower your self image. You can lie to your friends, family, significant other or spouse, but you can never lie to yourself.
James Feudo owns the Boston Web Design Agency JVF Solutions and loves blogging about personal development and communication in his spare time.