We live in the modern era. The way we work continues to evolve. Business travel remains prevalent, but many people also accomplish most of their work from home. A balanced workforce of men and women leads to new challenges.
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 team members are on the road with me. Sometimes it's male colleagues; other times, it's female colleagues. This dynamic presents a potential challenge for me.
Perception is reality. When we're tired and away from home, our judgment 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 temptation is subtle. It's like a virus, adaptable and attacking at our weakest points.
One of the fantastic things that I have learned is how some national speakers naturally protect themselves on the road. They don't allow situations that could prove to be a temptation. For example, I know two speakers who never travel alone with a female colleague. Instead, they ensure that a third person is on the trip.
Policies like this, though prudent, may seem sexist. However, women have attributes to offer the workplace and are valued team members. Strong leaders put a premium on protecting everyone's families and relationships. By preventing compromising situations from arising, they preserve their team's integrity.
What's critical here is recognizing areas of weakness and adapting. For example, if you don't have a problem going on solo work trips with a colleague of the opposite sex, you may have other weaknesses that you must take into account. Likewise, if you know that alcohol quickly impairs your judgment, make appropriate adjustments to counter that threat.
Your relationship with your wife is your most important relationship. She is your teammate. She's your best friend and trusted partner. So let nothing hurt or inhibit that relationship.
