Humor, Respect, and Depth

Formulating mission statements is considered good business practice.  These statements are usually worded beautifully and printed in high-gloss.  In the practical life of these endeavors, end results are often rarely seen.  Recently, I encountered an unusual mission statement.  An entrepreneur phrased their statement, “We aim to treat each other decently.”  Say no more.  That is clear, concise, and applicable.  This mission statement pleases me.  This short sentence calls for action without high polish, frills, or excessive demands.  Written any other way, it would remain smoke and mirrors.

Which values should be rooted in a viable mission statement?  Mainly these three: humor, respect, and depth.  The correct combination of these values is possible, but not simple.

Humor is a way. Humor runs from often inglorious self-awareness to liberating calmness.  It releases previous insecurities and leads to contentment.  No more caring what others think.  Humor leads to such positive affirmations as, “I have nothing to prove to anyone.  I am accepted as I am.  I can laugh at myself.  I can believe without seeing.”

Respect is the key to relationships. Unfortunately, too many relationships fracture unnecessarily.  Many times this occurs because one party is too hasty, given up hope, or has not taken the time to understand the motives and interests of others.  This is unfortunate and unnecessary.  The basis for lasting relationships is remembering hope remains where respect lives.

Depth protected from pride. Superficialities and half-truths are dangerous.  Regarding minimum performance as normal is a comfortable road many choose to take.  However, this road leads to myopia, which leads to conceit and overconfidence.  The overwhelming desire for discovery and continuous improvement is a much more valuable trait.  A corresponding pleasure naturally develops to share the ensuing results with customers, suppliers, employees, friends, and enemies.  This is credible charity.

We see that humor, respect, and depth form a solid foundation for any business.  All three are included in the mission statement, “We aim to treat other decently.”