The REAP Factors

We reap what we sow.

In order to achieve better results, from time to time organizations and individuals can establish a “Code of Conduct”. The REAP Factors are an outline for establishing ones’ own “Code of Conduct” with interacting with other people, which center around four areas, Respect – Expect – Accept – Project.

Respect. This is where one listens to and respects other different points of view. Ask yourself, “How do I show respect to others – even if I don’t agree with what they are saying?

As you consider your own “Code of Conduct”, here are some thoughts of what others have said:

• I respect others’ views and boundaries, even if they are different than mine.
• I listen carefully to what others say.
• I appreciate diverse points of view. I can learn from others things I may have not otherwise considered, even if at first it sounds outrageous.
• As I stubbornly defend my right to make mistakes, I respect the right of others to make their own mistakes.
• I don’t give advice unless asked.
• I treat other people the way I would like to be treated.
• I will not speak negatively about a person, behind their back. If I have an issue, I will speak to them about it directly, or not at all.

Expect. This is where we set forth our expectations of others around us – even if someone disagrees with what I am saying. Here we ask, “What do I expect out of others around me?”

Here are some thoughts of those who have established their expectations:

• I expect others to respect my boundaries and points of view, even if they are different than their own.
• I reject all toxic behaviors - both with myself and others. This includes gossipy, sarcastic, arrogant, angry, rude, mean, judgmental, illicit, and self-righteous behaviors. If these become issues, I attempt to steer the exchange in a constructive way, or politely excuse myself.
• I avoid toxic people altogether, or strictly control any time spent.
• I focus primarily on the ‘here and now’ and do not spend undue time dwelling on past laurels or mistakes.

Accept. This is where we listen to and accept positive people, as well as show our appreciation. Here we ask, “What do I do to show acceptance to others?”

Here are some comments of others who have shown their acceptance:

• I accept people with similar values, into my inner circle.
• I accept people based upon character, not position. People with character are honest, respectful, straightforward, competent, courageous, loyal, enthusiastic, and dependable.
• I appreciate truthful, and useful thoughts, and take notice of the good in others.
• I am empathetic.
• I quickly accept apologies and am forgiving.
• I am grateful to all those who contribute positively to my life and to society.
• I express thanks in both word and deed.

Project. This is where we make decisions of what we are going to project to others around us. Here we ask, “What message do I want to project with those who I agree with?”

Here are some of the thoughts expressed in this area:

• I project my optimism. I project a positive, encouraging tone and attitude.
• I stand up for good principles.
• I maintain a warm and friendly home and work environment.
• I accept full responsibility for my behavior. I never use others’ poor behavior as an excuse for my own.
• In handling conflict, I let small things go altogether. I say what I mean, without being mean.
• I allow others to save face.
• I actively practice acts of charity.
• I loath to find fault and am lavish in my praise.

It may be a good idea to develop your own set of REAP Factors, or a code of conduct where you define what you Respect, Expect, Accept and Project.