Entitlement Epidemic: Only in Sports?

Two weeks ago, an article appeared in USA Today that I was particularly drawn to. Christine Brennan, in the sports section, wrote on the Entitlement Epidemic she saw taking place within our most successful athletes. Ben Roethlisberger, Gilbert Arenas, & Tiger Woods were cited, but there could have been several more.

My question is, isn't it the same in business? We need only look at Enron, Arthur Anderson, & AIG. Didn't these leaders think that they were owed a good living, were owed a special lifestyle, were entitled to power & wealth?

When things go bad, much of the time our vanity or arrogance is at the root. We fail to see warnings because of the glasses through which we see. We justify irresponsible conduct because we've worked hard and DESERVE it.

Well, here's a news flash: It isn't going to get any better until we as leaders, we as a society, we as parents, we as a faithful people, stop making it our most important goal, something we just cannot live without. Our false gods destroy us.

As a consultant, I have to turn away from a deal that might be financially lucrative if I have to misrepresent my abilities. Or leave a client who sidesteps ethical issues.

Christine concluded her article with not a lot of hope, if each of us continues to spend our time and money on the wrong things. It is up to each one of us to make a difference each day and change the outcome. If we consider ourselves to be blessed by all we have, and not entitled, we will make everyone proud in the right way.