Wednesday, May 11, 2005

Amen Elbert Hubbard!


To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing.
- Elbert Hubbard

I remember an old boss of mine about 25 years ago taking me aside and telling me ‘we must not put ourselves in a position where we might be criticised.’

I was young and perhaps your ‘average corporate person’ I suppose and the language seemed appropriate.

I often think about that exchange and realise that his position was one which illustrated the culture of that part of my career quite well.

Nowadays as an older, more experienced manager and human being, I would not sign up to his words.

I would rather look at this Elbert Hubbard quote and commend it as the mission statement of any organisation that wants to see things improve.



2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I liked your honesty in this post. If only more people felt the way you do ... There's a discussion today @ Tom Peters on the subject - abusive bosses.

Hope to see you there!

Noel

Trevor Gay said...

Thanks Noel - I am a regular visitor to TP Blog site as you may know.

My posting here reflects my real experience of life in the healthcare business in the UK.

Although the particular incident I quote was over 20 years ago the prevailing culture in the National Health Service is still defensive with a prevailing 'cover your back mentality.' Sad but ture.

We need more 'Tom Peters thinking'

Warm regards Noel - I hope you will tell your friends about my Simplicity blog.

Trevor