Acting after due Consideration
Seydhakka Alla Seyak Ketum / Seydhakka Seyyaamai Yaanung Ketum
Classical English couplet — “'Tis ruin if man do an unbefitting thing;Fit things to leave undone will equal ruin bring”
What it says in plain words
“Doing what you should not do can cause harm. Leaving undone what you should do can also cause harm.”
The classical Tamil reading
ஒருவன் செய்யத்தகாத செயல்களைச் செய்வதனால் கெடுவான், செய்யத்தக்க செயல்களை செய்யாமல் விடுவதனாலும் கெடுவான்.
An expanded Tamil interpretation
செய்யக் கூடாததைச் செய்வதால் கேடு ஏற்படும்; செய்ய வேண்டியதைச் செய்யாமல் விட்டாலும் கேடு ஏற்படும்
The ethical and philosophical heart
Avoiding harmful actions is only one part of acting well. Doing what is needed matters just as much in daily life. Ignoring a needed repair can cause trouble, like damaging something yourself. Think about both what to avoid and what needs your attention.
In personal life, work and society
- Personal
- Avoid taking medicine incorrectly, but also take needed medicine as directed.
- Workplace
- Do not damage shared tools or leave needed repairs undone.
- Family
- Avoid hurtful words, but also offer support when someone needs help.
- Society
- Do not leave rubbish in public spaces or ignore waste you are responsible for clearing.
How to apply this today
- Decision-making
- Consider both the harm an action could cause and the harm of doing nothing.
- Integrity
- Avoid doing wrong, and follow through on your responsibilities.
- Communication
- Avoid spreading false information, and share important facts when needed.
- Leadership
- Stop harmful actions, and make sure necessary work gets done.
- Governance
- Avoid harmful decisions, and keep essential public services working.
For leaders and teams
A good leader must avoid harm and take needed action. Check both what people are doing and what remains undone.
Something to sit with
“What needs your attention today, and what action would be better avoided?”