Cardinal Virtues: Prudence

Recently, I wrote several blogs about the Seven Deadly Workplace Sins. Now I’m taking a look at the four Cardinal Virtues: justice, fortitude, prudence and temperance. These are great qualities to have in your personal life and they can carry over to help you thrive in the business world.

Last time I looked at fortitude; now it’s time for a little prudence. After extolling the virtues of courage and people who are willing to take risks, now I’m praising people who have foresight and wisdom. These are the people who are smart enough to actually weigh the possible consequences before they take the gamble. They have the intelligence and good sense to think before they leap. They don’t just charge blindly into any situation hoping for the best. They think it through before they steamroll ahead.

Recklessness never had a place in the business world. There’s way too much at stake - a company’s success, lots of money, and your own reputation. So use discretion, caution and your brain in the office if you want to get ahead.

After all, a bull that goes charging into in a china shop certainly commands attention, but not the good kind.

Next up: Temperance