If karma is real, then does business karma also exist? It stands to reason, if you believe what goes around comes around, similar to personal karma, businesses also have karma.
First, what is karma? There are many definitions of karma based on the various Indian religions. Although, regardless of what “interpretation of karma” is being followed, its meaning is really all about “cause and effect”. This is the basic premise that I would like to discuss here. In terms of business karma, it not only refers to small businesses, but to large multinational companies who need to focus on it.
Business isn’t personal, on that we can all agree. But the way that a business approaches and conducts itself – the good, the bad and the ugly – says much about the culture and persona of the business. It will also dictate its Karma. For instance, business leaders of an organization that conduct themselves positively in everyday situations plays directly into the success of the business and of that business having good karma.
Key principles that a business should exercise to develop good karma on a daily basis: Generosity, Fairness and Positive Vibrations
Generosity:
Generosity is one of the fundamental philosophies of good karma. This means, of course, giving back to the community and charity organizations, but that’s not all. It also speaks to the giving of time, of being protective or nurturing of others with no benefit to the organization. Whether it’s helping another individual trying to break into an industry through networking or volunteering to speak at a school seminar. Let’s not forget the old adage: Charity begins at home. Therefore leaders and managers must be generous with their team and partners (or suppliers). This doesn’t mean overpaying for services or salaries, it means being supportive of all team members. It comes down to the philosophy of paying it forward with all business associates and with no intention of receiving anything in return. And, that generosity will come back.
Fairness:
The ability to see situations as they are and check your ego at the door can score huge points towards attaining good karma. Let’s face it, in business there are always going to be sticky, messy or unclear situations. Some businesses go through major divorces, that get downright ugly – complete with bullying and threats. Make sure when dealing with these types of business issues that a win-win philosophy is at the forefront of all proposals. This means no one loses face and no one flexes their muscles in a negative way. Being ethical and professional should be a given in business (in my opinion) – however, being kind and just isn’t exercised as often as it should be in today’s fast-paced world.
Positive Vibrations:
Nothing good ever comes out of knee-jerk reactions or decisions made under stress or panic. It just enhances the bad karma that placed a business in a bad situation in the first place. In today’s market environment, many businesses are in a state of flux, with many changes on the horizon. The ability for a business to stay the course, avoid blindly jumping in another direction and maintain its clarity of vision promotes good karma. Aftermarket setbacks, it takes time for the dust to settle and conditions to stabilize. So business needs to be given that time as well – while maintaining a positive and upbeat view of the possible outcome. I know that this sounds very “new age-ish”, but it does work.
Those are my top three principles for developing good business karma. Are there any principles that you exercise that you feel promote good business karma?
