As we grow up, we learn skills and form opinions based on our experiences and personalities. We define ourselves by our thoughts, assumptions and actions.
One of the challenges that we have is that we naturally assume those around us think the same way we do. In fact, it's amazing how often we seem surprised when those around us think differently than we do.
The real difficulty comes when we are faced with hard choices that challenge our assumptions. Some of the hardest choices arise when we are asked to choose between what is right for us and what is right for others.
Personally, I believe that most people, at their core, want to do the right thing. People don't, by default, try to make things hard on others. Most people make a conscious decision to be good.
Then, life happens. We get hit with the realities of our circumstances. Schedules get in the way. We don't get all the information and make premature decisions.
After we've made our decision about what is right, we become dogmatic in our approach and pride sets in. It's hard to change your opinion after you have already decided what you want to do.
Just because people are like a horse with blinders about their decisions it doesn't mean they are mean people or don't care. It may just mean that the opinions they have formed based on their ignorance has become so ingrained that they can't let it go.
Doing the right thing is hard for two key reasons. First, when you make your decisions, it might be the right decision. Then, when you find out that it's not, it's hard to shift. Second, when those around you don't agree with you, you might not willing to fight for what is right and cave to peer pressure.
Often, the right thing to do is the most expensive thing to do. It might be emotionally expensive or, in business, it can simply cost more to implement. It's important nonetheless.
Doing the right thing doesn't mean people will love you for it. In fact, there will always be those that don't like what you do or say no matter how much you try.
Never waver in doing the right thing. Just make sure you understand your motives and do the best you can. You won't always get it right but, in the long run, doing the right thing will always improve your life and the lives of those around you.
