Weekly Snapshot: Root in Integrity

Hi Friends,

Life with strong principles is a life worth living. Integrity is a core pillar of a good life, but we are so focused on profits and loss that we don’t talk much about it. Instead, we forge narratives to signal honesty, but deep down, we lack the true essence of an honest life. Heck, we are often not even honest with ourselves.

I never thought much about integrity, but as I have transacted with many different people over the past couple of years, I have realized that integrity is the foundation on which you build a solid relationship. In a business transaction, for example, if the counter-party displays a lack of integrity but shows the way to a large chunk of money, it is better to walk away from that deal. Though, I concede that it is easier said than done. After all, who, in their right mind, would walk away from a fat paycheck?

I am guilty of being in situations where I have compromised my principles to get a deal done. I have transacted with the wrong people that afterward I realized was not worth it. It is better to walk away than to regret it in the future.

As a promise to myself, I now make all my decisions with a core focus on integrity and not money. Warren Buffet said it takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.

The lesson is simple. Root yourself in integrity. If you’re successful, your integrity will keep you alive even after you’re lowered 6 feet down the ground.

💪 Wins of the week

1. Designs for the promo engine signed off. Now time for development at full-speed!
2. Made positive progress on learning more about the energy markets.
3. Regaining momentum.

🧐 Challenges & Learnings

1. Gaining back momentum is difficult - ideally, once you’re in the flow it’s better to keep going. Once you stop, the inertia keeps you stationary and oh boy it’s tough to find your rythym again.
2. Instead of focusing on doing something brilliant; focus on avoiding anything stupid. It’s surprising how much value can be gained by simply avoiding silly mistakes.
3. “We suffer more in imagination than in reality”. Fear is a real thing. The only way to overcome fear? Action. Think about what is the worse that could happen and be okay with it.

🎯 Goals for Next Week

Next week is all about getting shit done and growing my sense of purpose.

1. Learn how to calculate savings from using battery storage solutions versus fuel-based alternatives (continued from last week).
2. Get a deal to the finish line - the last mile is always the hardest.
3. Complete development preparation for promotions engine at work!
4. Publish 1 article and 1 YouTube video.
5. Stay focused on the tasks that matter.

📖 My Readings

I’m wrapping up Skin in the Game - just a few chapters left.

🎬 My YouTube Video

I QUIT my consulting job. I share my reasons and thoughts so youngsters watching can make a conscious decision of choosing the right career for themselves.

✍️ Quote of the Week

“If it is not RIGHT do not do it;
If it is not TRUE do not say it”

– Marcus Aurelius"

Till next time.
Raheel Ahmad