Life is full of compromise. This is a lesson we all come to embrace as we grow up. I remember well the day I realized that the world doesn't revolve around Ginger.

I was in my 20s and had planned a trip to visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan. I especially wanted to go to that particular location because of my wonderful memories of visiting them as a child. My husband and stepdaughter were going on the trip along with my mom and dad and other siblings and their children. So, it was important to me to show them the best Michigan has to offer.  

When we arrived in Michigan, I was told that going to those particular dunes was out of the question. There just wasn't enough time to make it that distance. So, an alternate set of dunes was recommended. It was logical for me to agree, but I wasn't going to get my way! How could they not go along with the plans I had made? How dare they! After all, I had come all the way from Florida to go to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, not some second rate dunes!

That's when it hit me! Just because I wanted everything to go according to my wishes didn't mean that it was going to happen. Thus I came to my realization that the world doesn't revolve around me. Yet, as I continued to grow into an adult and business owner, I developed my own moral compass, which I rely on in all my endeavors. Unlike my wants, this moral compass contains the values of which I won't compromise.

Staying true to myself hasn't always been easy. There have been times when I have been tempted to go the other way. For example, last month I received an email from a former partner and client whom I had fired over a year and a half ago. The email began by complimenting my talent and ability. (Good start.) Then it went on to explain how easy it would be to do the job the person was seeking. (Another plus.)

I could have easily said yes, with conditions, and made a nice bit of money from the arrangement. However, that would mean that I would have to deal with this difficult person again.

I had promised myself on the day I fired that person that I would no longer subject myself to the abusive behavior they dished out to me. I could tell by the email that this person hadn't changed. No apology or promise to make things right preceded their request. So I knew that compromising myself and my values, in this case, was not the right thing to do.

Yes, it would be nice to earn a few unexpected dollars, but was it worth it? The answer was a resounding "No!"

Like me, when you set your moral compass and make promises, whether to yourself or to others, stay true to your values. If you do so, and keep  your word, and stand your ground, you will find you will not only be happier, but you will also gain the respect of those around you.