Vi Veri Vniversum Vivus Vici: How in Business Honesty Drives Market Conquest

In the dark confines of my small office, a phrase lit up my mind while founding my company thirteen years ago: “Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici.” Originating from Latin and often (erroneously) attributed to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, this philosophical sentence, by Aleister Crowley and popularized by Alan Moore, translates to “By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.” This ancient wisdom became the guiding beacon of my entrepreneurial journey.

For those in the business realm, this phrase might seem overly abstract. Can truth, an ostensibly intangible idea, provide a solid foundation for running a company? As an unwavering advocate of this philosophy, I can assert with certainty: yes, absolutely.

Within the web of business relationships, honesty is a foundational value, both internally—horizontally among peers, and vertically between bosses and subordinates—and externally with suppliers and customers. Some may view it as a hard path, even unnecessarily ethical. But, in my experience, it's a two-way street that plants the seed of trust and reaps the fruits of loyalty and mutual respect.

“It's better to say I was wrong, let's find a solution together”

However, this honesty, when manifested, often takes people by surprise. In a world where deceit and misrepresentation are common currency, truth becomes a disturbing anomaly. But, “It's better to say 'I was wrong, let's find a solution together'” than to build a fragile house of cards with lies. We all know how that game ends.

At this point, I could quote a Depeche Mode song, “Policy of Truth.” This song presents an interesting perspective on truth and lies: “You'll see your problems multiplied if you continually decide to faithfully pursue the policy of truth.”

Though it seems to suggest that sometimes it might be easier to maintain a lie instead of facing the repercussions of the truth, I interpret it as an ironic representation of the reality of many businesses and relationships. It may seem easier in the short term to hide the truth, but eventually, the lies pile up, creating bigger problems that could have been avoided if the truth had been told from the start.

I know there can be skepticism and surprise about this. We've been conditioned to believe it's necessary to lie to employees, suppliers, customers, to gain an advantage. But the question is: at what cost? In my experience, the price of dishonesty far outweighs any short-term benefit it might provide.

Recently, in a regional training session on processes that involved all employees of Pecuniam Lex, I reiterated that honesty is the only currency to buy credibility. Rhetorical question, yes, but fundamental: Do you know where they sell credibility? Seriously, I'm interested in buying and I pay well.

Honesty, as I see it, is not just a moral value. It's a smart business strategy. It fosters a positive work environment, enhances customer satisfaction, and gives the company a solid reputation.

So, until I find out where they sell credibility, I will continue forward, guided by the power of truth, “conquering the universe.” Because, at the end of the day, our legacy is measured not only by our financial gains but also by the respect and trust we generate. This respect and trust, in turn, open new doors and create more opportunities for successful business deals.

Let's always remember: “Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici.” By the power of truth, as long as we live, we will conquer the universe. And if we fall, we will rise, always guided by truth, honesty, and integrity. That is the true mark of success, providing us not only with a moral benefit but also with a competitive edge in the business world.

By Phillips J. Díaz-Vicioso, LL.M.