The CEO of my firm issues required reading lists for his senior management. He recently gave us “The No Asshole Rule,” by Robert I. Sutton. I didn’t need to read beyond the title to get the gist. It is a simple theory: You don’t need to be an asshole to succeed in life. If you are genuine and you believe in what you do wholeheartedly, there is every reason to be straightforward and even risk outlining the potential downsides. Do not mistake being strong-willed, firm and persuasive for being dishonest and insecure.
There is a lesson in here and it is more than just a collection of obvious notions. As a public relations professional and someone with a decent political background, I have some idea about one’s image and relationships. As someone who’s been to court with family over money, who has thanklessly helped family members in need, and as someone who’s been married since kindergarten, I also have some perspective on relating to those closest to us. I have made mistakes, some that cost money, but more significant, some that tested faith and trust. If I had extended more of the latter, the former would have made little difference at all. The trick is to learn something from experience, and that is perhaps even more difficult that managing the relationships you have.
If experience is a guide, your relationships will define your survival. Care for them well.
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