Here's what I think! Lack of Social Responsibility got us into this economic mess and Social Responsibility (SR) is what will get us out of it.

Let's face it - we're a part of the problem and we MUST be part of the solution. How are we part of the problem - you say? It's those fat cats on Wall St and those politicians in Washington that got us into this mess - right? Yes, but only in part.

I believe that all of us - individuals and businesses - have lacked social responsibility in our financial matters for quite some time. During the 90's we came to expect 15-20% returns, and never once wondered how it's possible for us to reap those huge returns. Then in this decade, we bought houses at record rates, and never once wondered how it's possible for so many people to buy their own home, when wages were not increasing and higher debt was a runaway train.

And companies across America have focused so singularly on their profits that they too never once wondered about the impact of this narrow focus on other aspects of their business, including their long term viability. They forgot that every organization has 3 bottom lines: People Bottom Line, Planet Bottom Line and Planet Bottom Line. And, that to be a truly good, even great company, there must be a balanced approach to all three bottom lines. This is where Social Responsibility comes in!

I do believe that Social Responsibility by all of us is the answer to our current troubles. And while we can't go back and undo the mistakes of the past, we can and must make better choices today. To be a part of the solution, here are a few things that you can do:

· Learn about Social Responsibility and the impact that it can have on the way you as an individual and you as a company leader make decisions. Prioritize trust by prioritizing SR.
· Research companies that you want to do business with or want to invest in. Find out if their values and actions match yours. Ask yourself - do they have a sustainability plan? Do they offer fair wages? Are their employees, customers and suppliers treated with the same respect as their stockholders, or do their stockholders get all of the consideration? Reward companies who are doing well by doing good!
· Be a company that others want to do business with! Respond to the markets' demand for good work and transparency. Use this economic glitch as an opportunity to build real trust with your prospects and customers. Lead your industry and your community - be a part of the solution.
· Be simply responsible. Make considered purchases based on real need rather than immediate gratification. Teach your children the rewards that come from smart choices, even when it means delaying a want. Realize that the government is not responsible for our financial well-being - that is our job.
· Do not allow politicians to turn us into victims. We are in control - we vote every day with our money, with our voice and with our choice in the voting booth. We must choose how we use that control with great care!

So now is the time to wonder - wonder what you can do to be more socially responsible. Wonder which Presidential candidate can best meet your needs and the needs of this country. Wonder about the long term impact of the decisions you and your elected and business leaders are making. Your country - this complex and glorious group of millions of creative and dedicated individuals - needs you and needs you now! This is what being Socially Responsible is all about - it's being active, using your voice, asking important questions and expecting that our government, our businesses, and yes, we ourselves can do better. 
 

If you'd like more information on how to build communities with a cause or how to leverage your socially responsible strategies to build high-trust relationships, please email me at ann@annranson.com or phone 972.964.5495.
 

Ann Ranson