Believers are made, not born. Human are born to believe.
A good business raises believers. A bad business raises disbelievers, who don’t believe in any vision, mission or values.
Experience got me to believe that a mission executed on values does achieve the desired vision. Yes, I lived the dream with those who walked the talk, promoted questioning attitude and accepted criticism. That’s when business elites embrace excellence as a behavior. Don’t get me wrong, they were not perfect but they were genuine.
1- Walking the Talk:
I learned that good businesses walk the talk or simply say nothing. Any other way, businesses will only raise disbelievers.
Surprised? Did you ever reflect on Quran chapter 61 verses 2 and 3:
“O you who believe! Why do you say what you do not do? It is most hateful to God that you say what you do not do.”
Did you ever wonder why Allah is still referring to those who don't walk the talk as believers? It sounds strange, but it's not. It simply confirms that blind spots could cause believers to unconsciously not walk the talk.
2- Promoting Questioning Attitude:
I learned that good businesses encourage their staff to ask “WHY”. Decisions are allowed to be questioned while top management commits to clarify and educate. Any other way, businesses will only raise disbelievers.
Surprised? Did you ever reflect on Quran chapter 2 verse 30:
“When your Lord said to the angels, “I am placing a successor on earth.” They said, “Will You place in it someone who will cause corruption in it and shed blood, while we declare Your praises and sanctify You?” He said, “I know what you do not know.”
If Allah does not mind being questioned, shouldn’t we? Of course like angels, questions must be asked politely.
3- Accepting Criticism:
I learned that in good businesses no one is above the law. Constructive criticism is encouraged and openly recorded as lessons learned. Any other way, businesses will only raise disbelievers.
Surprised? Did you ever reflect on Quran chapter 80 verses 1 to 11:
“He frowned and turned away. When the blind man approached him. But how do you know? Perhaps he was seeking to purify himself. Or be reminded, and the message would benefit him. But as for him who was indifferent. You gave him your attention. Though you are not liable if he does not purify himself. But as for him who came to you seeking. In awe. To him you were inattentive. Do not. This is a Lesson.”
Notice how prophet Mohamed, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is being openly criticized by Allah and the incident is being recorded for ever as lessons learned. If Prophet Mohamed could be criticized, shouldn’t we?
It's businesses that raise believers or disbelievers. We need good role models to raise more believers. Otherwise:
“Our Lord, make us not [objects of] torment for the disbelievers and forgive us, our Lord. Indeed, it is You who is the Exalted in Might, the Wise." Quran chapter 60 verse 5.
