Incorporating Karma into your business ethos

Building your karma cash flow
Depending on where you've been trained or cut your teeth in the world of business, you may believe that the sole way to reach your business goals is through the 'me' focussed, 100% driven, and completely ruthless approach. There are numerous schools of thought (and numerous schools!) that teach you that 'cut-throat' is the only way to really thrive in business - that there's no place for altruism in business of today, and no one else to think about but you and your aspirations. Although there probably is many arguments to support this view point, there is much more evidence confirming that that the more 'hard-nosed' you are, the less likely you are to have a satisfying working life.
Karma can contribute to your success
The majority of people from the 'hardnosed school of business success' aren't inherently tough - they wouldn't barge into the front of a queue, or scream at an old dear for accidentally obstructing them - so why adopt this persona at the work place if it doesn't sit right with who you are? This isn't to say that you ought to give away your trade secrets, or discount products for the sake of it. But why not try to bring a bit more 'feel good' in to your business?
Considering the karmic effect of your actions is a great place to begin. Why not do something just because it will assist a colleague, or customer... or even a competitor? Although you might not realise an immediate return on your karmic investment, the immediate benefits are in fact twofold. Firstly, the 'halo' effect: you will have instantly lifted your profile and how you are perceived by the person you've assisted (and by any others that they happen to mention your good deed to). Secondly: you will feel better about yourself - that much ridiculed 'warm glow inside' really will make you feel more positive, which will translate into increased productivity in additional aspects of your career.
Your karma investment
Think about Karma as you think about other facets of your business: you have a marketing budget to elevate your company into a positive light - so consider your 'karma budget'. Help people out just 'because you can' - not because you have an ulterior objective - and you'll see a return on your investment. Plus your karma budget doesn't actually cost anything.
Spending your karma budget
With respect to spending your karma - there are loads of options:
• You may be aware of a business opportunity that doesn't resonate with you at the moment - rather than a brisk 'no thanks', or sending the email straight in your trash folder, why not have a think about who else might be interested and pass the opportunity on? It may only be a quick phone call, to an associate or the effortless moment it takes to forward the email, and that's good karma (even if they don't take advantage of the opportunity: you offered).

• Check out websites where other professionals are searching for business advice or help with a problem. Websites such as Deskarma.com and LinkedIn Answers enable you to both assist other business people out and create an actual 'karma score' to show that you know your stuff and you're a giver.

• If a colleague or employee is obviously overwhelmed or struggling, rather than piling on the pressure why not suggest to take on a little of their load - just this once. Understanding and consideration earn respect, and a few hours of your time helping another get back on top of things may result in an additional committed and happier employee for the future.
So, even from a 'hardnosed' perspective, karma is a sensible investment - you reap far more than you sow. Plus, in the words of the Dalai Lama:
"Live a good and honourable life. Then, when you are older, you can look back and enjoy it a second time."


In pursuit of my true potential within every aspect of life, currently focusing on my career development and professional reputation. Hoping to increase my karma through sharing my experience and expertise, in turn providing me a little luck along the way... :)