By Kadam Bhambari
During a meeting of the Rotary Club of Chandigarh Midtown in Chandigarh, India, I encountered a little gem that has reshaped my perspective on ethics, decision-making, and being a better person. This secret code to navigating life’s moral maze was none other than The Four-Way Test.
To me, The Four-Way Test provides a simple but powerful set of questions that serve as a moral compass in both personal and professional realms. The first question asks “Is it the TRUTH?” Imagine if we all took a pause before spreading news or sharing information, verifying if it’s as true as it claims to be. This question alone could revolutionize how we interact and understand the world around us.
Then comes, “Is it FAIR to all concerned?” Ah, fairness, the pillar of justice! This question pushes us to consider the impact of our decisions on everyone involved. I remember a situation at work where I had to assign tasks. Asking myself this question made me reconsider and reshuffle the workload to ensure fairness among my team.
Next up, “Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?” Now, this one’s a heart-warmer! It nudges us to think about fostering positive relationships and creating goodwill in our actions. I recall a time when a simple act of kindness — helping a neighbor with groceries — resulted in a lasting friendship.
And finally, “Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?” This question challenges us to assess the long-term consequences of our actions, making us mindful of creating genuine, lasting benefits for everyone involved.
The beauty of The Four-Way Test lies in its adaptability. It’s not about blindly following rules but about using these questions as a moral framework, a roadmap for making decisions that positively impact our communities and the world at large.
You don’t need to be a Rotarian to embrace this philosophy. Imagine if everyone integrated these questions into our daily lives! That’s why I’m throwing out the challenge — let’s try it for a week. Before making a decision, big or small, run it through The Four-Way Test.
Rotary’s commitment to these principles has fueled incredible projects worldwide, from eradicating polio to empowering communities through education and sustainable development. It’s a shining example of the incredible influence of prioritizing ethical decision-making and selfless service.
Let’s take a cue from Rotary and allow these questions to guide our actions. Let’s start a ripple effect of ethical decision-making that transforms our lives and the world around us. Remember, it all starts with asking the right questions. Share your experiences, thoughts, and even the hurdles you faced in the comments below.
Kadam is the spouse of Jeeten Bhambari, president of the Rotary Club of Chandigarh Midtown, India
https://blog.rotary.org/2023/11/29/the-four-way-test-as-a-moral-compass/