Every culture seems to have its own set of values and norms that are somewhat developed over generations.

Yet, what is relatively unexplored is the truth in what is right and what is wrong in business practices, especially since so many cultures are integrating together. Isn’t it strange that some things are taboo in some cultures, yet accepted in others?

Research indicates that ethics are what you believe, why you believe certain things and how you act in regards to your beliefs. Ethics can vary depending on a person’s background, attitude, or field of study.

In any business, organizational workers should demonstrate values and ethics appropriately and engage in some form of professional development to improve professional competence. It is of utmost importance within any business that personal ethics is in harmony with the ethics of one’s organization.

It isn’t common for businesses to reward or uplift workers who are procrastinators or ‘slackers’; even though every procrastinator has a ‘good’ excuse. Many psychologists will admit that procrastinators have developed a learned habit and are mentally trapped as if they were a smoker trying to kick the habit.

There are also the typical trouble-makers within a business.

“Why do we employ these people?” workers might ask. In many cases, a person’s true colors do not typically show in an interview. Many times, people come to work with good intentions, but out of jealousy, fatigue or bitter resentment they make decisions that offend or hurt others without consciously thinking of following ‘The Golden Rule’: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

It would be nice if all companies or institutions sought creative ways to reward those who work tirelessly to produce excellent results. Some businesses reward employees with monetary means, while others use verbal recognition or ‘pats on the back’.

Those who work long hours without earning extra pay are the ones who truly care about their performances; whether they receive a raise, a new title or recognition for going the extra mile.

As for time management, certain responsibilities have to be prioritized in order for job related tasks to come first. Family, friends and leisure time are all affected by the rigorous tasks involved in maintaining a successful career.

A few time management suggestions that might serve as beneficial to those who are dedicated at work are:

If time is not managed properly, work can become quite stressful. However, time and stress can be managed in a number of ways. For example, learning to delegate tasks and seeking effective resources can reduce the number of hours spent working on any particular activity.

Also, diet and exercise are critical in lowering a person’s level of stress. Therefore, choose your time wisely to take care of YOU. Seek family support and find ample time to rest and relax.

In any line of work, it is wise to keep track of time, keep memos, balance the weekly load of duties, take necessary breaks, learn to let the small ‘stuff’ go and listen and learn from others.

There are some things in life you just can’t change, yet in spite of those things you must try to retain a positive attitude.

Good intentions, good habits and good friends can aid in producing a healthy, positive day.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne. 

Her column appears regularly in the Daphne Bulletin and Spanish Fort Sun.