Earlier this week, Falcons’ quarterback Michael Vick was indicted in regards to a dog fighting probe. This not the first time the young athlete has recently gained negative press attention. After a flight security check a few months back, he was under investigation for possessing a water bottle with a false bottom containing marijuana residue. We can all take notes from Vick’s actions and the repercussions that fired back against him.

Think about the standing Michael Vick has in society; think about how much higher the pedestal he is put on due to the fact that he is a talented athlete (albeit, apparently a dumb criminal too). If a man of such stature in our country is getting in serious trouble with the law, imagine the even smaller little-to-no chance you and I would stand to get a break or such drug related and cruelty to animal charges. Yeah, we’d be in a world of hurt for a long, long time.

Our behavior inside, and almost more importantly outside the workplace directly determines how others view us. If a boss observes an employee hazing others, talking with a dirty mouth, etc., this instantly tarnishes that worker’s reputation permanently and moves them closer to being fired, not towards promotion. As professionals, what we do and say will make or break our careers, so choose wisely and keep in mind the fine line between rising to the top of one’s field and becoming the next Michael Vick.

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