If all life is impermanence, as the Buddhists instruct, then how do we keep our footing?
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My respect for simple principles we’ve heard since childhood has deepened over time. In a world where business trends shift rapidly, I see lasting value in prioritizing attributes that remain steady—foundations that help leaders and organizations stay grounded and operate at their best, even in challenging times.
These foundationals may seem obvious, but they are often dismissed as outdated, impractical, or idealistic. I believe they are essential. In The Pinball Theory of Business & Life, I’ve fleshed out a range of such foundationals, but here are some snippets:
Honesty – When leaders set an example of honesty, they create a culture where integrity is expected. The opposite is also true.
Trust – Like families, organizations thrive when built on strong, connected teams. Trust is the glue that holds them together.
Fiduciary – If we honor “fiduciary duty” only when legally required, we miss opportunities to strengthen relationships.
Values – There is often a gap between the values we claim to uphold and the values we demonstrate in our interactions with executives, employees, customers, vendors, and other stakeholders. We can close those gaps.
Teamwork – Mutual respect, protection, and support are foundational elements of strong teams. While some may see these as idealistic, I believe they are at the heart of effective organizational life.
Clarity – Striving for clarity forces leaders to focus, plan, and communicate effectively. Lack of clarity leads to misdirection, inefficiencies, and frustration.
Simplify – We should strive to simplify explanations, communications, procedures, plans, reports, and meetings.
Messaging – If we integrate foundational principles into our leadership and organizational culture, much can be lost if we fail to communicate them effectively.
Job Commitment – Even if we’re preparing for our next opportunity, whether flipping hamburgers as a teenager or maneuvering a CEO transition, we should give our best effort to our current role.
The Long View – Leaders who embrace the long game—even when it means resisting immediate pressures—build organizations that thrive over time.
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These foundational traits/values seem apparent, but writing them off as dated, impractical, and ignorable can be tempting. Adherence to such solid attributes steady and guide us, our teams, our businesses, our organizations in the real world, especially when we face challenges. Hold them tight.
