Principles trump rules in the modern workplace

By Dr. Herman M. Lagon

IN TODAY’S rapidly evolving workplace, achieving excellence requires a balance between structure and flexibility. While rules have traditionally governed organizational governance, it is time to recognize the supremacy of guiding principles. Through my experience in education, NGO work, and the media industry, I have realized that integrating guiding principles fosters discernment, depth, and purpose-driven growth, particularly within the Philippine context.

Guiding principles serve as ethical beacons, illuminating the path ahead while allowing individuals and teams the freedom to adapt to unique circumstances. Unlike rigid rules that prescribe specific actions, principles provide a broader framework that empowers employees to make decisions aligned with organizational values and objectives. This cultivates a culture of ownership, inquiry, and accountability, enabling individuals to exercise sound judgment. In the Philippines, where relationships and interpersonal dynamics play a vital role, principles facilitate a more nuanced and contextually appropriate approach to decision-making.

Universities and schools often articulate guiding principles that define their organizational culture. For instance, my university’s principles are Integrity, Social Justice, Discipline, and Academic Excellence (ISDA). These principles encompass professionalism, accountability, service to the Filipino people, equal rights and opportunities, addressing poverty, order, harmony, efficiency, and expertise contributing to nation-building and Sustainable Development Goals. Similarly, during my time at a Jesuit school, the emphasis was on the 7C’s, which highlight academic excellence, ethical decision-making, personal growth, service to others, leadership, cultural appreciation, and a Christ-centered life.

When well-articulated and followed, guiding principles become the foundation that weaves the entire managerial and organizational processes in the workplace. Everyone thinks, communicates, and operates in harmony without feeling constrained by rigid rules. This sense of empowerment and ownership fuels individuals’ commitment to their organizations. To make this a reality, it is crucial for everyone, from top to bottom, to embody and animate the guiding principles in the workplace and in life.

Meanwhile, an essential aspect of guiding principles is their emphasis on depth rather than breadth. They prioritize cultivating core values and character virtues that shape our actions. Individuals gain a deeper understanding of their impact by delving into the underlying reasons behind choices, fostering continuous growth and personal development. This reflective practice creates an environment conducive to self-improvement and shared learning.

In a society often fixated on superficial appearances, the principle of substance over form becomes invaluable. While rules may provide clear guidelines, they can inadvertently stifle innovation and creativity. Shifting the focus to principles encourages organizations to explore novel approaches and challenge conventional norms. This emphasis on substance empowers individuals to contribute unique perspectives, enabling organizations to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

In the Philippine context, the principle of process over destination holds particular significance. With its diverse cultural tapestry and complex challenges, the journey toward success becomes as crucial as the outcome. Guiding principles recognize that results are shaped not only by achievements but also by how they are attained. Encouraging a mindful focus on the process fosters collaboration, adaptability, and a resilient spirit among team members, amplifying their collective capacity to overcome obstacles and achieve excellence.

While guiding principles take precedence, evaluation, and tangible outcomes remain crucial in pursuing workplace excellence. Output continues to be a vital aspect of performance assessment. However, organizations balance accountability and individual growth by aligning evaluation measures with guiding principles rather than rigid rules. This approach encourages employees to reach their full potential, knowing that their efforts are evaluated based on adherence to core principles, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of the modern workplace, the merits of guiding principles become increasingly apparent. Embracing principles over rules creates an environment that encourages critical thinking, empathy, adaptability, and a deep sense of ownership.

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Dr. Herman Lagon fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice. He is an ISUFST professor, a USLS student, an Ateneo retiree, and an alumnus of UP, UI, and WVSU.