First Things First

by Stephen R. Covey

One day, I was sitting in a company meeting where people were discussing important policies that could have a significant negative impact on the environment. As I sat there, I came to the realization that, while I felt very strongly about these issues, I was essentially silent. “Why?” I asked myself. “Why am I afraid to open my mouth? When I was hired into this company from the outside years ago, I had no fear. I openly expressed my feelings and concerns. I was confident. I felt I could act with integrity. What’s made the difference?” As I thought about it, I realized that since that time, I had acquired substantial retirement benefits. I’d bought a new home. I was making payments on a new boat. Essentially, I didn’t want to do anything that might jeopardize my economic security. I realized the “golden handcuffs” held me bound. At that point, I made two resolutions: to get my financial affairs in order and build up some reserves, and to continually improve my marketability. I never again wanted to be in a position where my integrity was compromised by my dependence on a job. This manager reported that he later walked into a staff meeting, handed each person a newspaper, and told them to turn to the want ads. “Look them over,” he said. “See if any of the jobs that are advertised look better than the one you presently have.” They did, and many of them found jobs that looked really good. “All right,” he said. “Go check them out. See if you can qualify for those jobs. Come bac...