"Li" in the work place

I started my education in a Chinese primary school 55 years ago. The school Principal of the second Chinese primary school that I attended (in Parit Buntar), who was then maybe about 50, came from China. He used to explain to us in very simple language the teachings of Confucius. As I grew up my interest in the teachings of Confucius continued.

Confucius taught a Code of Conduct called "Li". I recall long ago reading in a Chinese book about the application of "Li" in the workplace. Throughout my career of 30 years in the service, I tried to hold on to the principles of "Li" in my everyday life and in my workplace. I found that consciously practicing the "Li" principles had brought me inner peace and contentment, even when adverse situations arose in the workplace.

Li in the workplace

The practice of Li in the workplace is comprehensive, ranging from smiling at a co-worker to being kind to others. It includes a sense of willingness to serve others. It includes a sense of self-responsibility and discipline. It includes not engaging in practices that are unethical and corrupt . It includes being respectful of all in the work place, irrespective of rank. It includes working with a commitment to realize the objectives of the organization. It includes ensuring the well being of fellow colleagues.

The opposite of Li bahaviour in the work place is the obsession on “self.” This includes rudeness, insensitivity, bullying, gossiping, and being disrespectful. It includes not recognizing the importance of fellow workers and speaking ill of others.