Subscribe to RSSLoyalty: The Asset of Inestimable Value
There is one great asset that businesses and organizations may possess; one asset that is perhaps greater than all others. This asset is not for sale, though it is of tremendous worth. It cannot be sold, though it can be lost. This asset cannot give you a depreciating expense on your financials. It can be acquired only by being earned, and it may be lost if those things that earned it are abandoned.
This asset is loyalty, and there is no substitute for it.
One of the greatest examples of loyalty, and its kindred spirits of faithfulness, sacrifice, and commitment, is that of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. Not only is this work one of the greatest works of fiction and allegory mankind has produced, but it has inspired mankind to greatness in some of his most troubling times. Most recently, it has also caused one of the most beloved movie trilogies in American history.
For those not familiar with the story, it is about the corrupting influence of power, which is contained in a ring that was made by the embodiment of evil. Some very unlikely characters come upon the ring and set out on a quest to destroy it.
It is here that we come to our scene. One member of the party, who pledged to protect the rinbearer until the ring was destroyed, fell under the corrupting influence of the ring, believing that its power could save his people; he betrayed Frodo and attempted to take the ring for himself. Frodo determines that he cannot allow the ring to torment and turn any more of his friends, and so sets out to finish the journey alone. But he has forgotten the oath taken by his best friend, Sam.
And now we see a shining example of loyalty:
“Go back, Sam. I’m going alone.”
“Of course you are, and I’m coming with you.”
Sam risks, and almost loses, his life in his commitment to the cause at hand, so great is his loyalty. And yet, this scene is only the first in a multitude of risks, abuses, and trials, and still Sam remains loyal. The key is that Sam always does these things himself, without being asked, and without thought of his own regard.
Loyalty to a real-life organization can have just as much impact. It does not come as a result of coercion. It cannot be bought. It cannot be traded. It can only be earned. But when you earn loyalty to your organization’s cause, it is a powerful asset worth more than any other.
Tags: Branding, character, Leadership, loyalty, Relationships, value