We live in a modern era. The way that we work is very much different than in days gone by. People are now working more and more from home. Business travel remains prevalent. With both genders now in the workplace, we have new challenges to face.

About twice a month, I spend an overnight on the road. I get a room in a cheap hotel and crash. On more than one occasion, other people from my team are on the road with me. Sometimes it is male colleagues, sometimes it is female colleagues. This presents a potential challenge for me.

In our day, perception is reality. When we are tired and away from home, our judgement can be compromised. People do things on “business trips” that they would never do at home. Fatigue has a high cost to clear thinking.

As Catholics, we know that Satan doesn’t just walk up to us on the street and make an offer. He is much more cunning than that. He morphs, he evolves. In that way, he is very much like a virus. He adapts and attacks at our weakest points.

One of the amazing things that I have learned is how some national speakers is how they naturally protect themselves on the road. They do not allow themselves to be put into situations that could prove to be a temptation. For example, I know of two speakers who never travel alone with a female colleague. They bring someone else along.

This is not sexist against women. This isn’t to say that women don’t belong in the workplace. This is to say that they put a premium on protecting everyone’s families and relationships. By not allowing for compromising situations to arise, they preserve their integrity.

What is key here is that you recognize where you may be weak, and adapt. Perhaps you don’t have a problem going along with only a colleague of the opposite sex. However, you may know that alcohol easily impairs your judgement. Make the adjustments you need to.

Your relationship with your wife should be your most important human relationship. She is your teammate. She is your best friend. She is your trusted partner. Let nothing hurt or inhibit that relationship.

Consider your working relationships. Are they appropriate? Do you allow yourself to get into potentially compromising situations? Safeguarding all parties involved is one of the most professional things that you can do.