An election recently occurred. One
candidate chose to focus on a single topic, while the other made a broad appeal
to cultural relevance. Guess who won? One topic policy won’t appeal to
everyone. As humans, we are selfish. “What is in it for me” will always trump
the bottom line. For that reason, don’t allow yourself to be disrespected.
Always evaluate your beneficial gain.
Is an economic situation benefitting
you? Just because someone is your family or friend doesn’t mean you should
invest. Would the person doing the asking reciprocate? Can you afford to lose
money if they don’t pay back or the master plan goes bankrupt? Is the price
worth it? If you say no to supporting them, can the relationship endure such
boundaries? Quid pro quo is on the chessboard.
What is the political gain? For
example, if you endorse one candidate over the other, what is the fall out if
your team loses? This association may no longer be of value. In cases like that,
stay neutral in the neutral zone. This is not a new phenomenon.
Machiavelli’s book “The Prince” is as popular now as it was written over hundred years ago. If you want to survive any lengthy political issues, analyze the implication. Long-term results should be evaluated. Ask yourself: how will the next move keep me relevant and respected? What is the cost?
Always know your worth. I.e. Democrats have always taken the American Black
vote for granted. They didn’t consider that they would lose, if the Blacks did
not support them. This time around, the Blacks finally let them know that their
vote is valuable. Your purpose is not to be used as a springboard for someone else’s
elevation.
