Be an Example - Mr. Executive!

We live in a fast-paced world and it is not surprising to hear words such as “Hurry up!” “We are late!” “You’re too slow!” among others, crop up in our fast-paced lives. We are clouded by the insatiable appetite for the acquisition of material items, recognition or positions through fair or foul means. We accept this as “success” and hardly question the means through which it is attained.

People have virtually become vampires; sucking blood everywhere. Greed has been honey-coated and is now described as “smartness to succeed.” The values governing our society, which rewards honesty and integrity, have been thrown out. This may be more common in the urban areas as compared to our rural towns where respect for good reputation and care for one another are still part and parcel of those societies.

We are presently witnessing a whole range of revelations in the media of alleged abuse of public funds by officers entrusted to seek and work for the welfare of all. The amounts being mentioned are staggering sums of money that could have made a big difference in the lives of so many Ghanaians. The judgment debt payments, SADA and GYEEDA cases are making great waves all over the country.

It certainly takes strong values and principles to withstand the pressure and temptation to join the crowd and partake in the activities that may seem to bring great financial gains and “success.” God’s creation, like the big oak tree, started as a tiny seed and went through various developmental stages before getting to the size that we see and appreciate. As we go against this law of nature, it is only misery that will eventually visit us.

Honesty, integrity, truthfulness, fairness have all become scarce commodities and people are compromising on all these virtues for the sake of making a quick kill.

Activities like deliberate disregard for procedures, arm twisting, over and under-invoicing, kick-back, diverting resources, bribery, are not contagious but are carried out by people who choose to do so for personal gains. Well, let me remind you that we are working for God and He has given us the opportunity to use the talents He gave us to make a difference, honour Him and make a living. Do not abuse the talent and the opportunity you have been given.

As managers and executives, let us all resist the temptations that come our way to indulge in bribery, corruption or abuse of the country’s or company’s resources. Nobody is perfect, but let’s strive to do what is right as per company’s rules and regulations and in the sight of God.

Mr. Executive, let not your lips and life preach a mixed message. You do not know who is watching and when your actions might become an example to others. 1Timothy 4:12, which states, “Be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” is a good reminder and guide for all of us. Remember that a good example always makes a good sermon. Those who cherish and live by example derive great benefits in the long run. It guarantees peace, wellbeing, prosperity, respect and goodwill. 

Mr. Manager! Mr. Executive! Choose to be an authentic expression of integrity, love and selflessness. Let us not be the hypocrite who prays on Sundays and preys on neighbours from Monday to Saturday. Be a light through your deeds and diligent work.

By: 

Ebenezer Ofori Agbettor

Executive Director

Institute of Human Resource Management Practitioners