Standing at the intersection of the Low Lane or the High Road is never fun. Actually, the journey or situation placing you there typically isn’t an enjoyable one. Some event occurred and now you must choose to “sling mud,” “throw punches,” “fight fire with fire,” “throw someone under the bus,” and all those other euphemisms for unprofessional and childish behavior, or you can act professionally, respectfully, and graciously.

Yes, the Low Lane is smooth – a slippery slope, even; you can sail down it in a hurry. The High Road is often steep, requiring much effort to put one foot in front of the other and balance against gravity. One is definitely easier than the other.

I know; I’ve had to choose paths, too. Oh, don’t get me wrong – I have taken the Low Lane on occasion. I’m not proud of it by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I’ve pretty much regretted every single step of the Low Lane. The High Road, however challenging it may be, always leaves me proud. It’s an accomplishment worth a personal celebration (e.g. “Hooray, I kept my snarky comments to myself,” or “Yay! I can acknowledge your work professionally and honestly.”)! I’ve even thankfully looked back on the High Road I’ve travelled because I was unexpectedly rewarded along the way either directly or indirectly through “happenstance.” I say “happenstance” because I really believe “what goes around comes around.” Taking the High Road has proved that to me on more than one occasion.

It’s okay to sit at the intersection for a while. I won’t honk – promise. Imagine what both roads look like one day, three weeks, or two months later. It might change your choice in maps.