The Power of Doing What Is Right: Beyond Policies and Procedures

As I sit here drinking my coffee, pondering whether to write about people management, the failures of leadership, or the seemingly endless presence of bullies in positions of power, I find myself drawn to a deeper question: What does it mean to do not just "the right thing," but to do what is right?

In a world governed by policies, procedures, and rules designed to guide our behavior, we sometimes forget about humanity. We cling to guidelines as if they are infallible truths, trusting them to solve every problem, every conflict. But in doing so, we lose something essential: compassion. The reality is, there are times when we should not simply apply the rules but instead, apply kindness, empathy, and understanding.

When Rules Fail, Humanity Prevails

There’s no denying the importance of rules and regulations, especially in workplaces or institutions where structure is necessary to ensure fairness and efficiency. But rules are just that—structures. They provide a framework, but they cannot cover the infinite complexity of human life. They don’t account for moments of vulnerability or situations where following the policy is the wrong thing to do.

Imagine a scenario at work: A colleague is going through a personal crisis. Maybe they’re falling behind on deadlines, and policy dictates a formal reprimand or even termination. But what if, instead of the formalities of paperwork, the right thing to do is to sit down with them, offer support, and extend some grace? In those moments, humanity has the power to achieve what policies cannot.

The same can happen in everyday life. You might see someone at a counter, struggling to scrape together enough change for lunch. The rule says that prices are fixed, no exceptions. But what would it cost you to dig a few pennies from your pocket? It’s a small act, insignificant by most measures, yet to the person in need, it’s the world. Kindness doesn’t always follow the rules, but it always leads to what is right.

Leadership and Compassion

This is where leadership often falls short. Too many leaders hide behind policies, using them as shields to avoid making difficult, compassionate decisions. They micromanage, bully, and enforce rigid standards without considering the real needs of their teams. This is where "shitty leadership" rears its ugly head. These leaders prioritize control over compassion, productivity over people.

But real leadership—true leadership—is rooted in humanity. A great leader knows when to bend the rules for the right reasons, when to put compassion above the letter of the law. It’s about making decisions that not only benefit the organization but also the individuals who make up that organization. It’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, not because they meet every performance metric, but because they are human beings worthy of respect.

Leadership is not about wielding power—it’s about empowering others. And sometimes, that means stepping away from the playbook and offering a helping hand.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

Compassion, in any setting—work, home, or in the everyday interactions we have with strangers—has a ripple effect. A small act of kindness can change someone’s day, maybe even their outlook on life. In a workplace, a little understanding from a leader can build loyalty, trust, and a sense of belonging. At home, patience and empathy can strengthen relationships and foster an environment where everyone feels supported.

When we lead with our humanity, when we choose compassion over compliance, we create a world that is kinder, more inclusive, and more connected. The ripple effect of a single compassionate act can spread far beyond the initial gesture, inspiring others to do the same.

Doing What Is Right

So, what does it mean to do what is right? It’s not about disregarding rules or procedures—they are there for a reason. But sometimes, doing what is right means stepping outside of those boundaries to see the person in front of you. It means understanding that everyone is fighting battles you may never know about, and your choice to be kind could be the light that helps them through their darkest moment.

Sometimes, it's about offering those few pennies to someone in need at the counter. Other times, it's about extending a deadline to a struggling coworker. It’s about understanding that life doesn’t always fit neatly into policies and procedures. It’s about remembering that we’re all human, and a little compassion goes a long way.

In the end, leadership, whether in an official capacity or simply in our daily interactions, should always be about people first. Not numbers, not productivity, not profits—but people. And people deserve more than rules—they deserve kindness.

The next time you’re faced with a decision, ask yourself: Are you doing the right thing, or are you doing what is right? One follows the rules. The other follows the heart. And in a world where humanity is often overlooked, we could all use a little more heart.