We live in a world where maximising gain for self is the goal of many. In such a world, seizing opportunities when the gap opens is perfectly normal. Usually, survival of the fittest is the order of the day.

We may be empowered today by the many resources at our disposal. Just don’t let your advanced position in life cause you to be arrogant, looking down on those perceived weak and thinking you’ll be on top forever. There’s only one controller of everything in life whether you accept it or not. Be humble and others-centred for your sustainable success. By Nimroth Gwetsa, 30 November 2024.

The saying, “When days are dark, friends are few” expresses many truths. The obvious is about people usually being attracted to those they can gain from, than those they perceive would be a burden to them. Since there’s now awareness of unconscious bias or prejudice, there should also be awareness of unconscious narcissism to explain reasons many only “knowing” others when they have something to gain from them until they lose that advantage.

Many businesses are guilty of this charge, displaying higher levels of customer-centricity when they are hunting for business and experiencing low sales volume. They turn into arrogant monsters the moment they believe they are indispensable. You see in them advanced levels of arrogance and the “take-it-or-leave-it” attitude, blackmailing customers at a drop of a hat.

Well, it would be tragic if they controlled every aspect of life because the “weak” would have no choice but to beg for mercy to survive this life. The good news is that, though weak at the time and taken advantage of, there’s One in control and charge of everything. He can turn a siege into decisive victory and humble the arrogant.

Further good news is that His sovereignty is independent of anyone’s beliefs, will or actions. He is divinely in charge, hates arrogance and is passionate about uplifting the downtrodden. Take courage in the knowledge that your adverse situation is not a permanent fixture in life, but a moment and an event that will pass in time.

Knowing that life is a wheel, sometimes turning slowly, and in other times faster, learn from others and own experience and do your best to protect yourself. Manage known risks and do your best to avoid putting yourself in a situation to cause you to beg for mercy from others. Live well with everyone. You don’t have to have fellowship with everyone but do your best to strive for peace and avoid conflict.

Manage risks. Do not be too trusting giving out and entrusting everything to others because people are fallible and fickle. Idolatry is real. The love for money and its pull is too strong for many, even a staunch believer to resist. Not everyone calling out goodness is themselves good or pursuing goodness all the time. At some point, their true god is revealed when they are on top having everything many wish for.

False humility is another dangerous weapon to watch against. In short, search your heart, intentions and beliefs. They determine your destiny and lot in life. You can’t prevent all setbacks or protect yourself against all the risks. Hindsight is the perfect science. Respect the law and contracts. Keep your word and honour your undertakings.

Do not use hindsight to wiggle yourself out of your contractual obligations and commitments. Ensure that you put your best teams on important initiatives so you can minimise regrets and maximise your gains legitimately. In maximising your gain, let it not be at the expense of others. Do not leave others feel they were abused. Let all the parties come out feeling they have gained something.

Have some empathy. We are fellow human beings after all. There should be a score for empathy and business contractual dealings in the overall ratings of companies. Perhaps this will improve and normalise business dealings and relationships with suppliers and customers.

May yours be a business many would wish to see it succeed and moving from strength to strength.