“If you do good…” Insights for Businesses, Management and Employees from a Ghanaian Proverb

Proverbs are deeply woven into Ghanaian culture, serving as tools for education, communication and moral guidance. These concise expressions of wisdom distill complex ideas into relatable lessons, enabling their use across diverse contexts—from personal development to community leadership. In Ghana, proverbs often encapsulate ancestral knowledge, providing a bridge between generations and reinforcing shared values such as respect, accountability and collaboration. For instance, sayings like “One tree does not make a forest” highlight the importance of community and teamwork, while others such as “If you do good, you do for yourself” underscore personal responsibility and ethical living. By reflecting cultural beliefs and social norms, proverbs remain a vibrant medium for preserving Ghana’s rich oral traditions and fostering unity​.

Relevance to Management

Ghanaian proverbs provide a foundation for management principles uniquely suited to the Ghanaian context. By reflecting on the values and practices deeply rooted in local traditions and social structures that these proverbs espouse, businesses, leaders and managers would carve out a more humane environment for fulfilling experiences by fostering trust, respect and innovation, ultimately creating practices that resonate with both local cultural norms and global standards​.

“If you do good, you do for yourself; if you do bad, you do for yourself”

Proverbs, such as “If you do good, you do for yourself; if you do bad, you do for yourself,” encapsulate the timeless wisdom of actions having intrinsic consequences. This particular adage teaches individuals and organizations the value of ethical behavior, mutual respect and long-term vision. Businesses, managers, and employees can draw profound lessons from it to enhance their professional conduct and operational strategies. By coupling this wisdom with other local sayings, a holistic framework for improved work ethics and management can be achieved.

The Interplay of Ethics and Reciprocity in Business

This proverb underscores the principle of reciprocity: good deeds often create a ripple effect that returns to the doer. In business, ethical practices such as honesty, fairness and transparency not only build trust but also establish a solid reputation. A manager who leads with integrity, for instance, inspires loyalty and higher productivity among employees. Similarly, businesses that engage in fair trade and corporate social responsibility often enjoy long-term benefits, including customer loyalty and sustained growth.

Management Lessons: Leading with Vision and Integrity

Managers can apply this wisdom by focusing on sustainable leadership. Leading with integrity fosters an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to contribute their best. A related proverb, “A man who pays respect to the great paves the way for his own greatness,” reinforces the importance of showing respect in leadership. By treating employees fairly and valuing their contributions, managers can cultivate a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. This culture not only enhances morale but also drives innovation and efficiency.

Employee Responsibility and Personal Accountability

For employees, “If you do good, you do for yourself” serves as a reminder that diligence, honesty and teamwork are investments in their personal growth. When workers uphold high standards, they gain skills, build reputations, and enhance career prospects. Another relevant adage, “When you climb a good tree, you are given a push,” suggests that pursuing righteous paths earns support from others. Employees who demonstrate initiative and responsibility are more likely to receive recognition and opportunities for advancement.

Applying Lessons for Broader Impact

Proverbs such as “One finger cannot pick a stone” highlight the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals. Businesses can draw from this wisdom by fostering environments that promote collaboration rather than unhealthy competition. A cooperative workplace encourages knowledge-sharing, innovation and the pooling of resources to solve challenges more effectively.

This philosophy extends beyond immediate interactions to broader corporate strategies. Businesses that prioritize sustainable practices, such as reducing environmental footprints and supporting local communities, benefit not just society but also their own long-term viability. A company that embodies the wisdom of “The child who asks questions does not become a fool” will always strive for growth by continuously learning and adapting to changes in the market.

In conclusion, Ghanaian proverbs provide a roadmap for ethical living and working, emphasizing that every action carries its reward or consequence. By integrating these principles into daily operations, businesses, managers and employees can build organizations that are not only successful but also respected and valued. As businesses navigate the complexities of a globalized world, these timeless lessons offer a foundation for ethical practices, collaboration and long-term success.

The author Jules Nartey-Tokoli is Founder and Group CEO at Groupe Soleil Vision, comprising Soleil Consults, LLC, NubianBiz dot Com and Soleil Publications. He has lived and worked in both Ghana and the United States, having extensive experience in Strategy, Management, Entrepreneurship, Premium Audit Advisory and Web consulting. He has also published several articles on Strategy and Management among others.