The 12 Laws of Karma Applied to Business Ownership
You are more likely to success as a business owner if you are motivated to help solve other people’s problems, not your own. Karma describes the concept of getting back whatever you put forth, good or bad, into the universe. By definition, it’s central to Hinduism and Buddhism for determining a person’s next existence based on the ethical net of their current life. But no matter which belief system you follow (or don’t), many believe the concept of karma plays a role in our lives – and by extension, the return we will receive from our business ownership.
When you run your business in accordance with the 12 Laws of Karma, you create good karma in your business life, increasingly the likelihood for good things to happen in the future. Below, find a breakdown of what each of the laws mean, plus tips for how to harness their power for your business’ success.
1. The great law
Also known as the law of cause and effect, the great law is what comes to mind for many people when considering what karma means. It states that whatever thoughts or energy we put out, we get back—good or bad. It’s like sowing and reaping. If you truly are an ethical proprietor, the kindness, knowledge and extraordinary help you bestow on your customers will net you greater returns in terms of revenue and profits.
2. The law of creation
The law of creation is all about creating. You don’t just wait for good things to magically happen in your business; you have to actively go out there and make things happen. Highly successful businesses are prime examples of people who embody this karmic law. They are constantly searching for creative ways to identify customer needs and offer products and services to meet those customer needs.
3. The law of humility
In order to change something in your life, you first have to accept what currently exists. That is the premise of the law of humility. This is also a trait shared by many highly successful business owners. Highly successful business owners are constantly assessing their current knowledge and seeking out education, training and/or new employees that will help them to better serve their clients.
4. The law of growth
As its name suggests, the universal law of growth is about expansion, namely within ourselves. As we grow, change, and evolve internally, our external reality will change and grow as a result. This, again, is where personal development, education and training can come into play. And growth potential never ends—there are always new things to learn, and better ways to be that trusted business owner.
5. The law of responsibility
The law of responsibility is about taking ownership for everything that happens in our lives, including the not-so-good stuff. We are responsible for how we show up in the world, how we allow others to treat us, and how we treat other people. In order to put this law into action, take responsibility for the part you play in every customer interaction.
6. The law of connection
The law of connection states that everything and every person is connected in some way. For example, although the past you, the present you, and the future you may seem entirely different, they are all still you. Everything you’ve experienced has led to the next thing and the next thing and the next thing. It’s all linked. The same applies to your business. Recommendations come from past customers. Your reputation is the sum of your past actions.
7. The law of force
Although some of us may claim to be a pro at multi-tasking, the inclination to do everything at once often just slows us down. The law of force states that you cannot apply your energy toward two things simultaneously. Our days are full of distractions. Realize there are times you will need to give full attention and devotion to a customer to serve their needs.
8. The law of giving and hospitality
This law of karma is all about selflessness, giving to others, and practicing what you preach. It’s about ensuring that you’re not simply saying and thinking good thoughts, but that you also walk-the-walk and follow those beliefs with action. Some of our best referrals come from helping a customer solve a problem – even when extra time or expense was necessary.
9. The law of here and now
The law of here and now is all about being present. Many of us dwell too much on the past – to the point of distraction. If, instead, we live in the here and now and are attuned to what we are doing, seeing, and really listening, we won’t be disconnected when we are interacting with customers. You will notice that the energy is different, and the experience is more engaging and rewarding, and your mind will be more keenly focused.
10. The law of change
If you’ve found yourself experiencing the same undesirable situation over and over again, this may be due to the law of change in action. It’s the universe’s way of nudging you to learn a lesson. The pattern will continue to repeat itself until you connect your feelings and learn from the experience; and take action in order to change the pattern.
11. The law of patience and reward
This karmic law essentially translates to “hard work pays off.” It’s about showing up and doing the work and not giving up on your big goals, even when you don’t see any progress made toward them quite yet. Live in accordance with this karmic law by knowing that achieving great things requires time and persistence, not giving up, celebrating yourself, and savoring every little milestone you achieve along your journey.
12. The law of significance and inspiration
The law of significance and inspiration tells us that we all have value to give. By extension, your training, experience and commitment are gifts meant to be shared with your customers and you will make a positive impact. Many of our customers have less than full knowledge of your product/service. So, your expertise is critical to them. Tap into this karmic law whenever you need a boost of motivation.
There is nothing more rewarding than positive feedback, and in this modern age – positive reviews. The resulting karma you have created nets immediate financial reward, as well as likely referrals in the future. And, it is one more experience which you can catalog for the benefit of future customers.