In life, we're often faced with choices: Should we do what's right, or what's expedient? Should we stick to our values, or take the easy way out? While it can be tempting to opt for the quickest or most convenient option, taking the time to do what's truly right can make a huge difference in both our personal and professional lives. In this post, we'll explore the difference between doing what's right and what's expedient, and how understanding that difference can lead to greater success and fulfillment in all areas of life.

Defining Terms

First, let's define our terms. What do we mean by "doing what's right"? Essentially, doing what's right means making choices that align with our values, beliefs, and priorities. It means taking the long-term view, considering the consequences of our actions, and making decisions that we can feel proud of in the long run. Doing what's right might involve making sacrifices or facing difficult challenges, but ultimately, it leads to a greater sense of purpose, integrity, and fulfillment.

On the other hand, doing what's expedient means taking the easiest or most convenient option, regardless of whether it aligns with our values or long-term goals. It means prioritizing short-term gains or immediate gratification over long-term success and well-being. While doing what's expedient can sometimes be helpful in the short-term (such as putting out a fire at work or dealing with an urgent personal issue), relying too heavily on expedient choices can lead to a lack of purpose, direction, and satisfaction.

So why does understanding the difference between these two approaches matter? In short, because the choices we make have a huge impact on our lives. When we consistently choose what's expedient over what's right, we may experience short-term gains, but we're likely to feel unfulfilled, disengaged, and directionless in the long run. When we prioritize doing what's right, on the other hand, we create a life that aligns with our values and gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Let's take a look at how this plays out in both our personal and professional lives.

Personal Life

In our personal lives, the choices we make can have a huge impact on our well-being, relationships, and overall happiness. Consider a few examples:

Eating junk food vs. cooking a healthy meal: When we're feeling hungry and pressed for time, it can be tempting to grab a bag of chips or order takeout. But consistently choosing these expedient options can lead to poor health, low energy, and a lack of confidence. On the other hand, taking the time to cook healthy meals that align with our values and goals can lead to better physical and mental health, more energy, and a greater sense of self-efficacy.

Binge-watching Netflix vs. spending quality time with loved ones: When we're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it can be tempting to zone out in front of the TV for hours on end. But while this might provide some short-term relief, it can lead to a lack of connection, intimacy, and joy in our relationships. Choosing to spend quality time with loved ones - whether that means having a meaningful conversation, playing a board game, or going for a walk - can lead to greater closeness, happiness, and well-being.

Procrastinating vs. taking action: When we're faced with a difficult or unpleasant task, it can be tempting to put it off as long as possible. But this approach can lead to anxiety, stress, and a lack of progress in our personal goals and projects. Choosing to take action - even if it's just a small step - can help us feel more in control, build momentum, and make progress toward our goals.

Professional Life

In our professional lives, the choices we make can have a significant impact on our career trajectory, job satisfaction, and overall success. Consider a few examples:

Cutting corners vs. prioritizing quality: When we're under pressure to meet deadlines or hit targets, it can be tempting to cut corners or take shortcuts. But consistently choosing expedient options over quality can lead to a lack of trust from colleagues, clients, or customers, as well as a lack of personal pride in our work. Prioritizing quality, on the other hand, can lead to better outcomes, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of professional fulfillment.

Taking credit vs. sharing credit: When we achieve success or complete a project, it can be tempting to take all the credit for ourselves. But this approach can lead to resentment from colleagues, a lack of trust, and a reputation for being selfish or egotistical. Sharing credit with others, on the other hand, can build trust, foster collaboration, and lead to greater success in the long run.

Avoiding conflict vs. addressing issues: When we encounter conflict or difficult conversations in the workplace, it can be tempting to avoid them altogether. But failing to address issues head-on can lead to a lack of trust, resentment, and a lack of progress in our work. Choosing to address issues directly - with empathy, respect, and professionalism - can lead to better outcomes, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of personal and professional growth.

Being Consistent

So how can we ensure that we're consistently choosing what's right, rather than what's expedient, in our personal and professional lives? Here are a few tips:

Define your values and goals: Before making any major decision, take the time to reflect on your values and goals. What matters most to you? What are your long-term aspirations? By keeping these in mind, you can make choices that align with your vision for your life.

Take the long-term view: When faced with a choice, consider the long-term consequences of each option. Will it lead to short-term gain but long-term pain? Or will it require some sacrifice or effort now, but lead to greater success and fulfillment in the long run?

Seek feedback and advice: Don't be afraid to seek feedback from trusted friends, family members, or colleagues when making a decision. They may have insights or perspectives that you haven't considered, and their feedback can help you make a more informed choice.

Practice self-awareness: Pay attention to your own thoughts, emotions, and reactions when making a decision. Are you choosing what's expedient because it's easier or more comfortable? Or are you making a deliberate choice that aligns with your values and goals?

Take responsibility for your choices: Finally, remember that every choice you make has consequences, both positive and negative. Take responsibility for your decisions, and be willing to learn from mistakes or missteps along the way.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between doing what's right and what's expedient can have a profound impact on our personal and professional lives. By prioritizing our values and goals, taking the long-term view, seeking feedback and advice, practicing self-awareness, and taking responsibility for our choices, we can create a life that aligns with our deepest aspirations and leads to greater success and fulfillment in all areas. So next time you're faced with a choice, ask yourself: am I doing what's right, or what's expedient? The answer may surprise you.