How do you define fairness?

You would expect fairness to be exercised by all but what you see and get is a lot of injustice. You might claim that you've been unjustly treated but isn't that your interpretation?

Your perception based on your personal values and rules determines how and what you think of it. Other people may see things differently.

Why are so many people crying out about the injustice in the workplace, at home and everywhere else? You may have heard too many times the phrase, "Life is unfair."

Is it?

Life is neutral. It doesn't play favorite. You get what you put in. You make it what it is. Isn't everyone responsible for how her life turns out?

How then do you define fairness? And how do you determine if you are being just in your dealings and interactions?

Firstly you have to accept that being impartial is a virtuous character. It is expected from leaders, employers, parents and every human being. Next, you should know that whatever you do, others have their opinions and they may not agree with your choices and decisions.

So what do you do then? You can't please everybody.

One of the best things to do is to seek for self-mastery.

• Become a person of character.

• Determine your codes of conduct.

• Establish what is right and wrong.

• Become knowledgeable.

• Exercise honesty and sincerity.

• Have considerable amount of self-esteem.

• Exercise compassion.

With these traits and personality, you don't have to worry about being unjust. And if some still say that you are, you can ignore their judgments. Just continue to act based on truth.

What if you believe that you have not been treated fairly?

You can complain, whine and nag but the probability that things or the person will change is slim. You can fight for your right but sometimes it's a long battle.

The better way to do it is to seek first to understand, then to be understood as per one of the principles taught by Stephen R. Covey.

What if things still don't work out?

Before you make unfairness such a big issue, take a look at yourself. Are you being true to yourself? Do you deserve whatever treatment you are or not getting?

Life gives you many options to choose. You can change countries, take up a new job, change partners or change yourself. Only you can decide.

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