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The Four
The Four
The Four
Making the right decisions is essential in business and life. The Four-Way Test is a
guide that can help us make the right decisions. Rotary International utilizes this test,
consisting of four questions: 1) Is it the truth? 2) Is it fair to all concerned? 3) Will it
build goodwill and better friendships? 4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned? By
asking ourselves these questions, we can make informed decisions that will benefit
everyone involved.
Herbert J. Taylor, a Rotary Club member, created the Four-Way Test. Back in 1932,
he set out to find a way to save the Club Aluminum company from bankruptcy. He
thought of the test as a way for people to practice the proper conduct in doing
business so the company as a whole would do the right thing and be able to rise
again, and it did later.
While the Four-Way Test sounds like something applicable mainly to our business
and professional lives, it is also something we can apply to our daily lives. It can be
beneficial when making decisions or taking actions that affect our career and
personal growth. For example, suppose you are in a leadership position and have to
make decisions and actions that can affect others. In that case, the Four-Way Test is
an excellent ethical guide to ensure we make the right choices that benefit everyone.
It is pretty easy to remember too, so if we face some moral dilemma regarding our
decisions, we can turn to the four questions stated in the test and see if we can come
up with a practical choice.
1. Is it the truth?
Truth can be a subjective matter. Each of us has our perspective of the truth, and the
truth we know may not necessarily be a universal fact. Nevertheless, it is essential
that what we do and thinks adheres to the truth we know and, if possible, to the
undeniable facts we have around us. It is even more so if we have to make policies
and decisions for others. What we propose for everybody else to follow and do must
be something that conforms to the truth. It mustn't betray people's beliefs and stick
close to facts as much as possible. Sometimes, we may have to make choices that go
against what people believe is true, but if it is something for their good and the
decision is not meant to deceive them, then we can still go for it and help people
realize the benefits that such choices can bring. What is important is that we don't
make decisions and actions that ultimately serve only ourselves at the cost of making
a fool out of others.