An incorrect answer to “What’s your time frame?” leads to disastrous trade-offs in character. So, don’t fall into this trap.
Often, my timeframe is based on my values. Hence, without the guidance of carefully-selected values, I make poor choices because I’m operating off the wrong timeframe.
The Essentials
Short-term gain looks really good — for a little while.
Truly, it’s much more challenging to produce consistent, long-term gains.
Now, combine a short-term time frame with unethical behavior. Again, a short-term, one-off lapse is easy to justify.
So, what’s the problem? Well, the one-offs become standard practice. Similarly, in Proverbs 10.2 we’re warned about the “treasures of wickedness.”
Sometimes, over a short timeframe, I do get away with it. And, it pays off big!
However, impactful leaders recognize that short-term, win-at-all-costs values erode their character. Thus, they ask repeatedly: “Will I trade character for gain?”
More critically, the precepts found in the Proverbs produce the values that give a correct answer to this question.
A precept-driven life thinks long-term about spiritual values, whereas short-term thinking is deadly. Proverbs 19.16 paraphrase
Apply This Today!
Unfortunately, many leaders answer incorrectly when asked “Will I trade character for gain?” That is, they do make short-term trade offs.
So, what’s root cause? They lack a value system that pushes them to protect their character.
Then, they tolerate a cascade of poor choices, compromises, and cover-ups. Now, don’t be that leader!
Remember, character is a lifetime effort. For better or worse. If I fall into the trap of trade-offs early in my career, the bad habit will follow me into leadership.
Again, don’t be that leader! Instead, answer correctly when asked “What’s your time frame?”
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