Every time you turn around, there's evidence that individuals are taking short cuts to get ahead, even if it means they're trading in their ethics for blind ambition. Recently, a USA Today reporter came under fire for fabricating stories and plagiarizing some of his work. While the proverbial jury is still out on his case, it's just another example of a saddening trend that we have to recognize: our collective ethics may be out of control.

From the brouhaha of big business to the shenanigans of Martha Stewart, we can point fingers at the seeming breakdown of our basic principles and values. In our culture, money continues to be the watchword for all things holy. Never mind that money can't buy happiness - just one look at Donald Trump's reality show proves that very few believe that old saying anymore!

Whatever happened to honesty, integrity, and moral values? Have they gone the way of the horse and buggy, never to return? I like to think not.

As tough as it can be at times to maintain it, ethical behavior will always remain the best course of action. No matter if your neighbor, coworker, friend, and lover do otherwise, it behooves you to practice the highest level of behavior you can manage.

Now you might think that you'll get ahead faster and easier by taking unethical shortcuts that will catapult you to fame and fortune in record time. Nothing could be further from the truth! The more you practice dishonesty or uncaring behavior, the less likely you will be to achieve anything noteworthy.

On the other hand, being honest will ensure that you'll develop a reputation for being a trustworthy person, which will be to your ultimate benefit at work and in your private life.

So next time you dream about the millions of dollars coming your way from this or that enterprise, remember that authentic happiness is based on more important things that cannot be bought: truthfulness, generosity of spirit, and compassion. With or without the big bucks, at the end of the day you will have far more to offer the world by being a role model of the right kind of behavior.

© Kathy Sanborn
Life Channels Staff Writer
All Rights Reserved

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