He who fights with monsters should take care that he himself does not become a monster. ~ Friedrich Nietzsche, Beyond Good and EvilTaking the high road is the principle that you maintain your personality and standards of behavior in response to difficult situations such as an encounter with political tricks, unethical behavior, insults and indignities. The principle addresses the common urge to shift into negative behavior when encountered with difficult people or situations. Changing your personality or standards in response to such challenges can make you look like the bad guy and leave you with a sense of regret.
Remaining calm and reasonable when faced with conflict. | Not matching insults with insults. |
Not matching unreasonable behavior with unreasonable behavior. | Using the systems, culture and norms that are in place to resolve conflict. |
Gracefully accepting unfair criticism but defending yourself in a reasonable way. | Refusing to engage in personal attacks but sticking to the issues. |
Refraining from gossip. | Not rushing to judge others. |
Helping others when they make a mistake instead of using the mistake to undermine them. | Helping others to save face. |
Win-win thinking whereby you believe the success of others doesn’t undermine your own success. | Being honest in an environment of dishonesty. |
Forgiving others. | Apologies when you feel bad about something. |
Working to see yourself in a realistic light even if others are delusional. | Working on your own weaknesses as opposed to harshly criticizing others. |
Avoiding whatboutisms. | Showing compassion and understanding. |
Trying to see the good and potential in others. | Doing good things without seeking reward and recognition. |
Being kind to someone who has been unkind. |
| Overview: Taking The High Road | ||
Type | ||
Definition | Maintaining your personality, standards of behavior and ethics when facing political tricks, unethical behavior, insults and indignities. | |
Value | Self-actualizationEarning respect and admiration | |
Related Concepts | ||
