The Business for Good Network Manifesto
At the heart of the Business for Good Network (BFGN) lies a shared commitment to generosity, wellbeing, authenticity and action.
The BFGN Manifesto defines the values that guide how we show up as individuals, collaborators and a collective community of purpose-driven leaders. It celebrates our belief in giving first, prioritising wellbeing, showing deep respect, acting with integrity and fostering an ecosystem, not an egosystem.
These principles underpin how we connect, learn and lead together to create meaningful impact. By embracing radical generosity, active listening and courageous vulnerability, we nurture a community where kindness and accountability thrive. The Manifesto reminds us that positive change begins with how we treat one another and how we lead, every day.
If these principles feel right for you, find others who feel the same in our community.
In a world where business ethics and value-driven people can be hard to find, here’s what sets us apart.
1. We are a 'give-first' community.
As a fundamentally 'give-first' community, we espouse a culture that places the act of giving at the forefront of our interactions and relationships. This core principle underscores our commitment to uplifting one another, fostering an environment of abundance, and nurturing a sense of collective responsibility.
We are Radical Generosity advocates!
In our community, giving is not seen as a transaction but as an ethos that permeates our daily interactions. It means sharing our knowledge, resources, time, and expertise without expecting immediate reciprocation. We believe that by generously giving, we create a positive ripple effect that benefits not only the receiver but also the entire community.
Our 'give-first' philosophy encourages active participation, collaboration, and empathy. It signifies our belief that when we contribute our strengths and support to others, we collectively amplify our potential for growth and success. We celebrate the diversity of talents and perspectives within our community, recognising that each member brings unique gifts that enrich the whole.
We view giving as an investment in the well-being and success of our community, understanding that what goes around comes around. By fostering a culture of generosity, we create a self-reinforcing cycle of mutual support and goodwill, where acts of giving naturally lead to acts of receiving.
Ultimately, our approach embodies our dedication to building a vibrant and harmonious community where kindness, collaboration, and the spirit of reciprocity are fundamental principles that guide our interactions, unite our members, and drive our collective progress.
2. Our wellbeing is prioritised.
In our community, the nurturing of individual and collective well-being stands as a fundamental pillar of our values. We recognise that to contribute our best selves to the community and to the world, we must first prioritise and maintain our own well-being.
We embrace the wisdom that 'you cannot pour from an empty cup.'
Prioritising our wellbeing means honouring our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. We acknowledge that self-care is not selfish but essential for our growth and sustainability as individuals and as a community. We understand that by attending to our well-being, we enhance our capacity to be present, empathetic, and resilient in our interactions and endeavours.
We actively encourage one another to practice self-compassion and self-awareness. We remind ourselves that it is not only acceptable but also commendable to seek balance and prioritise self-care amidst life's demands and challenges. We understand that when we fill our own cups, we have more to offer to others, fostering a culture of abundance and support.
Within our community, we provide resources, education, and spaces that facilitate self-care and promote holistic well-being. We respect individual boundaries and encourage open communication about our needs and limitations. By collectively embracing the principle of prioritising well-being and self-care, we create a healthier, more resilient, and harmonious environment where each member can thrive.
In this way, we affirm our commitment to nurturing not only our community's success but also the flourishing of every individual within it. We believe that a community that cares for its members' well-being is better equipped to address challenges, celebrate achievements, and create a positive and lasting impact on the world.
3. We show deep respect and support.
In our collective, we hold the principles of deep respect and unwavering support for our community at the core of our values. We understand that a thriving community thrives when its members feel acknowledged, valued, and nurtured. Therefore, we actively practice and promote these ideals in everything we do.
To us, deep respect means recognising and celebrating the uniqueness of each individual within our community. It's about honouring diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.
We listen attentively to one another, seeking to understand before being understood. We believe that by respecting each other's voices and stories, we create an environment where everyone's contribution is essential.
In addition to this, we firmly believe that we are stronger together. Therefore, we actively support one another's growth, well-being, and ambitions. Whether it's through mentorship, collaboration, or simply being a shoulder to lean on during challenging times, we stand by each other. We understand that our collective success is intimately linked to the well-being of each member, and we act accordingly.
We consider our community not just a group of people, but a network of interconnected lives. We nurture a sense of belonging where every member is valued and included. We work together to address issues, seek solutions, and celebrate achievements. Our community is a place of refuge, a source of inspiration, and a platform for shared dreams and aspirations.
By actively demonstrating deep respect and unwavering support, we aim to create a community that is not only resilient but also a beacon of positivity, compassion, and collaboration. We aspire to inspire others through our actions and continue to evolve as a space where individuals can grow, learn, and flourish together.
4. We are authentic and honest.
In our community, the values of authenticity and honesty are deeply ingrained in our ethos. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of transparency and integrity, understanding that these qualities are essential for fostering trust, building meaningful relationships, and creating a positive and nurturing environment.
Authenticity means that we are true to ourselves and others. We do not wear masks or pretend to be someone we're not. Instead, we embrace our individuality and encourage others to do the same.
This authenticity allows us to connect on a deeper level, as we share our genuine thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment.
Honesty is our guiding principle in communication and action. We believe that open and truthful communication is the foundation of healthy relationships and effective collaboration. We are committed to being honest with ourselves, acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, and with others, sharing information, feedback, and insights openly and respectfully.
Our commitment to authenticity and honesty extends to our interactions with the broader world. We take responsibility for our words and actions, striving to be ethical and principled in all that we do. We understand that honesty and authenticity are not just ideals to aspire to but are also practical tools for resolving conflicts, making informed decisions, and achieving personal and collective growth.
In upholding these values, we create a culture where individuals can thrive, where trust is the currency of our relationships, and where our collective potential knows no bounds. We celebrate the beauty in being true to ourselves and to each other, and we encourage one another to continuously strive for authenticity and honesty in all aspects of our lives.
5. We are considerate and patient.
In our community, we hold the values of consideration and patience in the highest regard as the cornerstones of our interactions and relationships. We firmly believe that by embodying these qualities, we can foster an environment of harmony, empathy, and understanding.
Being considerate means that we actively practice empathy and take the time to understand the perspectives, needs, and feelings of our fellow community members.
We make a conscious effort to show kindness, respect, and genuine concern for one another, whether in times of joy or difficulty.
Patience, in our view, is the foundation upon which lasting connections are built. We recognise that every individual has their own pace, challenges, and circumstances, and we embrace these differences with grace. We are willing to wait, listen, and provide the support and encouragement needed for personal growth and mutual understanding.
By being considerate and patient with each other, we create an atmosphere of trust and inclusivity. We encourage open communication, active listening, and a willingness to collaborate, even in the face of disagreements or conflicts. We understand that true growth often requires time and effort, and we commit to supporting one another on this journey.
Our community is a place where everyone's voice is heard, where differences are celebrated, and where conflicts are seen as opportunities for growth. We believe that through our collective practice of consideration and patience, we not only strengthen our bonds but also inspire positive change within ourselves and the world around us.
6. We are action-oriented ‘doers’.
We are defined by our proactive, action-oriented approach to life and work.
We are not content with mere intentions; we are dedicated 'doers' who thrive on turning ideas into concrete actions.
We understand that change and progress stem from our willingness to take initiative.
We view challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation. We believe that in every situation, we possess the agency to make a positive impact. We take the lead, set goals, and tirelessly pursue them, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to achieving desired outcomes.
Crucially, we take full responsibility for the consequences of our actions. We understand that our choices and decisions influence the outcomes we experience. Therefore, we are diligent in our efforts, considering the long-term effects of our actions on both ourselves and our community.
Accountability is at the core of our values. When we encounter setbacks or challenges, we do not shy away from acknowledging our role in them. Instead, we view these moments as opportunities for reflection, learning, and improvement. We believe that taking responsibility is a hallmark of maturity and integrity.
Our 'doer' mentality extends to our collaboration with others. We actively seek partnerships and teamwork, understanding that collective action often leads to the most significant outcomes.
7. We listen with intent.
In our community, we place a profound emphasis on the art of listening as a cornerstone of meaningful communication and connection. We recognise that true understanding and empathy arise when we engage in active, attentive listening.
When we say 'we listen with intent,' we mean that we approach conversations with purpose and mindfulness. We strive to be fully present in the moment, setting aside distractions and preconceived notions to give our undivided attention to the speaker.
This focused intent allows us to absorb information deeply and to grasp the emotions, concerns, and perspectives being shared.
Our commitment to 'understand and empathise' extends beyond mere acknowledgment. We believe that empathy is the bridge that connects us to one another's experiences and emotions. By understanding and empathising, we not only comprehend the content of the message but also the feelings and motivations behind it.
In our community, we cherish the diversity of backgrounds, opinions, and life experiences, and we recognise that active listening is the key to appreciating this richness. We value every voice, ensuring that each member has an opportunity to be heard and understood. This practice fosters a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Through our dedication to listening with intent, we cultivate deep, authentic connections that transcend superficial interactions.
Ultimately, by listening with intent to understand and empathise, we create a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone's voice is valued, and where compassion and connection flourish.
8. We honour vulnerability.
We deeply respect and cherish the act of being emotionally open with one another.
We are committed to fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to reveal their true selves without fear of judgment or rejection.
Honouring vulnerability is not merely an aspiration; it's a practice we actively cultivate. We believe that by acknowledging our own vulnerabilities and those of others, we create an atmosphere of trust and empathy. This, in turn, fosters genuine connections that go beyond superficial interactions.
We understand that true connection flourishes when people can express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and without reservation. In such an environment, we celebrate diversity, and we learn from one another's unique perspectives and life journeys.
By upholding this value, we build profound bonds of understanding, compassion, and support within our community. We recognise that it's through these connections that we find strength, resilience, and a sense of belonging. We actively reject any form of discrimination, exclusion, or intolerance, ensuring that our safe space is inclusive and welcoming to all.
We believe that the act of honouring vulnerability and providing a safe space for genuine connection is a testament to our shared humanity. It allows us to grow individually and collectively, fostering a community that thrives on authenticity, empathy, and mutual respect.
9. We ask for help if we need it.
We deeply embrace the notion that none of us possesses an infallible well of knowledge or an exhaustive understanding of the world. It is this very recognition that drives our commitment to asking for help when we find ourselves in need.
We understand that true wisdom lies in the acknowledgment of our limitations and the openness to learn from others.
Asking for help is an act of humility, one that demonstrates our willingness to set aside ego and embrace the collective wisdom that surrounds us. It signifies that we value the diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise that each member of our community brings. In doing so, we foster an environment that thrives on cooperation and mutual support.
We believe that the act of seeking assistance is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of our commitment to personal and collective growth. By acknowledging that none of us has all the answers, we unlock the potential for innovation and problem-solving that arises from collaborative efforts. Together, we can achieve more than any one of us could on our own.
Through the practice of asking for help, we aim to cultivate a culture of continuous learning and improvement. We recognise that there is always room for growth, and we celebrate the fact that we can learn and evolve together. In this way, we create a community where asking for help is not only encouraged but celebrated as an essential step on the path to enlightenment and progress.
10. We’re an ecosystem.
In our philosophy and interactions, we firmly embrace the concept that we are an ECOsystem, not an EGOsystem.
This means that we prioritise collective well-being, collaboration, and mutual support over individual self-interest. Our community thrives on the understanding that we are interconnected, and our actions have ripple effects on one another and the world around us.
Being an ecosystem means valuing diversity and recognising that each member brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table. We celebrate these differences and believe that they enrich our collective strength. Instead of competing for individual recognition or dominance, we collaborate to achieve shared goals and address common challenges.
In our ecosystem, empathy and compassion are foundational. We strive to understand each other's needs, concerns, and aspirations, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and support. This approach extends beyond our immediate community, as we aim to contribute positively to the broader human and environmental ecosystem.
We reject the notion of an egosystem, which prioritises self-centeredness, ego-driven motives, and a narrow focus on personal gain. Instead, we seek to uplift one another, knowing that our collective success leads to the fulfilment of individual aspirations as well. We believe that by nurturing this ecosystem mentality, we create a sustainable, harmonious, and thriving environment for all members.
Through our actions, decisions, and interactions, we demonstrate our commitment to being responsible stewards of this ecosystem, ensuring that it flourishes and continues to provide benefits for generations to come. In essence, we are not just a collection of individuals; we are a harmonious, interconnected ecosystem, working together to create a better, more equitable world.
11. We know how to agree to disagree.
In our community, we hold the belief that diversity of thought is a valuable asset, and we cherish the idea that every member brings a unique perspective to the table. To uphold this principle, we have cultivated the skill of 'agreeing to disagree' while maintaining gentle and respectful communication.
'Agreeing to disagree' signifies our willingness to acknowledge that differences in opinions and viewpoints are natural and can lead to enriching discussions.
It means that we accept that we may not always reach a consensus but can still find common ground in our commitment to respectful discourse.
Our emphasis on 'communicating gently' is a testament to our dedication to maintaining a civil and empathetic tone in our interactions. We understand that emotions and passions can run high during discussions, especially when disagreements arise. However, we strive to keep our conversations grounded in kindness and empathy, ensuring that our words do not cause harm or damage our relationships.
This practice fosters an environment of open-mindedness and tolerance. It allows us to explore different perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and learn from one another. By doing so, we build a community characterised by mutual respect and intellectual growth.
We see this approach as a cornerstone of our commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. It enables us to navigate complex issues with grace and dignity, ensuring that even in moments of disagreement, our bonds remain strong, and our collective purpose remains intact.
12. We don’t provide unsolicited advice.
In our interactions, we uphold a fundamental principle of not offering unsolicited advice. We believe that each individual's experiences, perspectives, and choices are unique and should be respected.
Rather than assuming we know what's best for others, we prioritise active listening and understanding.
Our commitment to not providing unsolicited advice stems from our desire to create an environment where people feel heard and valued. We recognise that offering unsolicited advice can often come across as judgmental or dismissive of someone's autonomy. Instead, we aim to foster open and supportive conversations, allowing individuals to express themselves freely without fear of being immediately guided or corrected.
We prioritize empathy and understanding over instructing or directing others. When someone shares their thoughts, feelings, or challenges with us, we strive to comprehend their perspective fully. We ask questions to gain insight into their experiences, validate their feelings, and offer support when requested.
This approach not only promotes trust and respectful communication but also acknowledges that individuals are the experts of their own lives. It encourages self-reflection and personal growth, as individuals are more likely to explore their thoughts and make informed decisions when they feel heard and understood.
By adhering to this principle, we create a space where everyone's voice matters, where diverse perspectives are celebrated, and where individuals are empowered to navigate their own journeys with the support of a compassionate and understanding community.
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