Workplace Ethics

Why must we act ethically? Why must we do good? Why don't we just be selfish and employ unethical means to garner wealth and samsaric pleasures? Why bother about coworkers and customers and morality?

Every action produces some result. If you drink water it produces some result - it satisfies thirst. If you drink alcohol, its impact extends beyond quenching thirst. Some results are visible clearly and immediately. Some take time and we may not realize the connection.

Imagine I lie about our teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh. When you get to know the truth, you will lose confidence in me. Not to mention that Thay will be disappointed with my behavior. Suffering is an uncomfortable state of mind and body. Embarrassment that I would feel would be an uncomfortable state of mind. That would be suffering.

According to the Vijñaptimatra school of Buddhism, our store consciousness has all kinds of seeds. If we water good seeds, we practice right action and we will eventually enjoy its fruits. What are the right actions and what must we avoid at the workplace?

First, we must not take up a job that will harm other sentient beings. We must not kill or hurt people and animals. We must treat our customers and coworkers fairly. We must not become a threat to others and must never become physically aggressive.

We must not take credit for somebody else's work. People work hard and deserve rewards. By taking credit for something that someone else has done, we deprive them of the rewards. We must also not sell or leak information that may cause harm to our coworkers.

We must not lie in a manner that benefits us but hurts somebody else's interests. We must not engage in slander and meaningless discussions. It is not necessary to keep talking about something you don't like. If you do that, you will become unhappy. Instead, focus on your breath or discuss something nice. If we develop equanimity, we will treat the CEO and the tea lady in much the same civil manner - with a smile. If we have the ability to decide on promotions, we must keep in mind that they must be based on merit alone and not our personal preferences.

We must not sexually harass our coworkers. Using our position at the workplace to demand sexual favors is completely unacceptable. We must be mindful not to invade the personal space of our women friends at the workplace.

We must not go to the workplace in an inappropriate or intoxicated state or carry things that are dangerous or prohibited like drugs or weapons. We must dress appropriately. Our clothes may invite comments that we may not like.

Beyond this, we must always strive to create conditions that promote creativity, innovation, honesty and happiness.

If we come across information that indicates unlawful or unethical behavior, we must appropriately inform the concerned agencies.

Please be mindful all the time. Work can easily and frequently cause stress. It can be countered through mindful breathing.

A happier workplace can solve a lot of problems. Please remember to breathe.