Integrity
We are committed to keeping our word and living our values - especially when it costs us something to do it. We expect that from our team, and they expect that from us.
The reasoning is simple: (1) living a life marked by integrity is the quickest way to build trust; (2) trust is the foundation on which relationships and teams are built; (3) a great team demands a great foundation; (4) therefore, we must live a life marked by integrity.
In BizLab world, this means doing the right thing even if nobody is watching. Sure, this can sometimes be emotionally difficult, maybe even be economically costly in the near term. Over the long term, however, doing right is the shortest path to meaningful relationships and enduring success.
We also demand everyone on our team to question actions inconsistent with our values. This applies to everyone, no exemptions. Period. It's important that we build a community of teammates with the courage to hold everyone accountable. We all have moments of weaknesses, and it's in the times where we need the strength of a team with guts to rally and do the right thing.
Being a person of integrity also means being just, candid and kind. We can all do this, and do this we must.
We endeavor to only do meaningful work - the kind of work that leaves a legacy and adds value to the world. In our world, life is far too short to take a near term view. What redeeming value is it to chase dollars at the expense of being able to look yourself in the mirror and be authentically proud of what you are doing with your life?
The practical application of our conviction to do meaningful work is that we strive to work in businesses that add value to the world, is consistent with our values, and that makes us feel good. We want to do a great work.