Balance of Power.

Success is a balancing act, isn’t it? It’s one thing to climb the ladder with talent and hard work, but staying at the top is a different challenge altogether. Once you’re there, the pressure really starts to build, and it can test even the most sure-footed professional. While ability opens the door, character is what helps you stay steady when things get tough.

When striving for goals, it’s often natural ability, years of experience, or a knack for spotting opportunities that helps you stand out. These qualities can propel you forward, helping you reach important milestones in your career. But ability on its own has limits. It may get you far, but it won’t always be enough to hold your place at the top.

Character is the foundation that keeps everything together when challenges on the job test your resolve. It’s about staying true to your values, even when difficult decisions arise, and maintaining integrity under pressure. Those with strong character can navigate the complexities of professional success without losing their footing, while others may falter.

I am reminded this morning of Enron’s downfall. The CEO, Jeffrey Skilling, was highly talented and instrumental in turning Enron into a corporate giant. But when faced with the pressure to maintain their skyrocketing success, he and others within the company turned to unethical financial practices to hide massive losses. His abilities got him to the top, but his lack of character caused everything to fall apart like a precarious Jenga tower.

With success come the inevitable trials and difficult decisions. You’ll find yourself tempted by shortcuts or pushed to compromise your values. The temptations and challenges that come with being at the top can test your principles in unexpected ways. If you’ve built a strong foundation of character, you’ll be better prepared to rise above these challenges and keep moving forward.

No matter how talented or skilled you are, true success comes from the strength of your character. It’s what ensures your success won’t topple like a Jenga tower when challenges arise. When you stay true to your values, even when faced with difficult choices, it can be just as today’s fortune says, "Ability will enable a man to get to the top, but character will keep him from falling."