Plan in advance what you would like to focus and achieve in the next 1 month, 6 month and 1 year. Having no plan leads nowhere, Peter Christopher Raj of Franklin Templeton Investments (Ltd.) comments on Proverbs 10.
(The book of Proverbs, mainly written by King Solomon (the wisest man) and some more kings – who were large scale employers, is a very important source of consulting for professionals in corporate world, who sincerely aim improvement in work efficiency, success in career, and thereby effectiveness in positively impacting their work atmosphere. The below mentioned passage mostly contains rearranged verses from the captioned chapter and less interpretation – that are in hints format rather than an article for your quick reference).
Are we a source of joy to the senior officials, or a source of concern? (v1). Do we try to get any value addition or gain at office in any ill-gotten or wicked manner? The right path would deliver anyone from ruin (v2-3, 6). Righteous life with integrity will make one outstanding and he will be remembered even after his exit (v7, 9).
The diligent and active lifestyle help inherit goodwill and wealth, while laziness depletes them (v4). What you are known for? Plan in advance what you would like to focus and achieve in the next 1 month, 6 month and 1 year. Having no plan leads nowhere (v5).
One will fail his boss due to his sluggardness, and thus will spoil his own career. Over an incident he will become ‘most unbearable person’ to his boss, as “vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes” (v26). There is a close inverse relationship between a wise heart, and a chattering mouth (v8). What is yours? You life (and intentions) will speak in the same way a chattering mouth does (v9-10). “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked” (v11). Be truthful before people in words and deal on anything directly with the concerned person. There will be greater damage because of lying and slandering lips (v18). Also be specific and brief in your words (v19). In whatever you speak, aim to bring glory to God, edification to you, and encouragement and benefit to others around you (v20-21). “The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom … the lips of the righteous know what is fitting” (v31-32).
What are considered as “wealth and richness” in your workplace? Aim to gather them and they will be a “fortified city” to you at your workplace (v15). Righteous deeds and conscious elimination of all wickedness brings longer life in any office (v16).
Attitudes and approaches towards others decide their reaction towards us (v12). People look for your intentions and convictions behind your words (v13-14). Be willing to correct and discipline yourself at any time. It will be considered as integrity as well as confidence and both will work in your favor (v17). Guard your character and conduct above anything. Concentrate on gathering wisdom (v23). The fear of the wickedness will overtake him (v24-25).
“The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it”. Honor the Lord and be blessed (v22). “The fear of the LORD adds length to life” (v27). “The prospect of the righteous is joy (and he) ill never be uprooted (v29-30).
