Don’t Make That Trade

Sometimes, people take advantage. Or wind you up. Or disappoint you.

And in those times, you might consider making a trade.

Those times are the worst times to make a trade:

We choose generosity because of who we are, not others. It’s easy to think being selfish is easier, since most other people are. But changing who you are into something ugly is a lousy trade.

We choose simplicity because of who we are, not others. It’s easy to complicate things in the pursuit of more, or to impress yourself or others. But changing our desired lifestyle to impress others is a lousy trade.

We choose courage because of who we are, not others. It’s easy to go along with the culture. It’s hard to go your own way. But sacrificing your own way to fit in is a lousy trade.

Don’t make those trades.

Bring your values to your work not because of what others want, but because of who you are.