Many people believe that faith is for Sundays, but I believe you should practice your faith every minute of every day. A person’s faith should be the foundation upon which all decisions are made, including your business decisions. I know some will not agree, but I am not speaking of proselytizing in the workplace, I am referring to having your actions speak for your faith.
The major faiths in the world share some of the basic principles such as respect, integrity, honesty, kindness and dignity. These characteristics are key to success in life, and will positively impact your business success.
The first principle is the principle of Purpose.
I believe you should view your business or career not as a job, but as a calling. The Scriptures say in Ephesians 2:10 that “God has prepared works in advance for you to do.” This is why it is so important to figure out what you were best created to do, and start doing it.
The second principle is the principle of Inner Peace.
Business is stressful. Your faith provides strength and peace in times of difficulty; which always comes. One practice I use on stressful days is to take time out for prayer. This does not have to be fancy or formal. It may involve me sitting in my car an extra five minutes, or closing my office door for lunch while I pray. This always reenergize me and fill me with the confidence I need to tackle any issue.
The third principle is the principle of Wisdom.
We need wisdom for decision-making. The Bible is filled with wisdom books that pertain to how to run your affairs ethically and with integrity. The book of Proverbs is one such book. “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6. Certain business decisions require supernatural wisdom as one must consider all aspects, including making decisions based on your integrity and not on profits only. Faith based decisions put people over profit in 100% of cases.
The fourth principle is the principle of Relationship.
Your faith informs how you treat others including employees, business partners, and associates. “Do to others as you would have them do to you,” Luke 6:31 is considered the golden rule of relationships.
As a business owner, you are responsible for maintaining positive relationships not only with your employees, but with clients and vendors as well. By practicing the golden rule, you will strengthen your relationships because you will always have the other person’s best interest at heart.
The fifth and final principle, is the principle of Perspective.
Your faith provides a different or fresh perspective on issues; perspective that you won't receive from secular sources. Popular voices may suggest that you win at all cost, but a faith based perspective would encourage balance and fairness in your decisions.
A common practice I use in my business is to “err on the side of mercy.” That means that if I have a close decision to make that affects another person, if I must be wrong, I would rather be wrong being merciful than being harsh.
Inserting your faith in your business keeps you from being buried in the weeds of business. It keeps you reminded of the Big Picture. Sometimes the voice of faith is counter-intuitive, but that's the edge you need.
What do you think? Drop me a line. I'd love to hear from you!
Also, please contact me for a free 30-minute coaching call if you feel you're ready to take your next step! Click on the link below to book your call!
With love,
Sharon