Prioritizing Family Promises: Simon Squibb’s Stance on Commitments

In a recent LinkedIn post, entrepreneur and investor Simon Squibb highlights the importance of personal commitments, particularly those made to family, using a recent interaction with Andy Burnham as a case study. Squibb details how he declined a meeting with Burnham, not out of disrespect or unwillingness to contribute, but because of a prior promise made to his son.

The Power of a Parent’s Promise

Squibb’s decision underscores a core belief in the integrity of personal promises. He emphasizes that actions, especially those of parents, speak louder than words when it comes to teaching children about responsibility and commitment. Squibb states:

I always remember kids don’t do what you say, they do what you do.

This principle, Squibb argues, is foundational to building trust and demonstrating character. By prioritizing the pre-arranged outing with his son, Squibb aimed to reinforce the value of keeping one’s word. He elaborates on the potential consequences of breaking such a promise:

And if I promised to take my son out for the day then didn’t – what does a promise mean after that.

According to Squibb, the integrity of a promise, once made, should be upheld regardless of the stature or importance of other potential engagements. He suggests that this commitment to his son is a non-negotiable aspect of his personal values.

Navigating Professional and Personal Obligations

Squibb’s post, while brief, offers a perspective on how business leaders and individuals can balance demanding professional lives with personal commitments. The situation with Andy Burnham, a prominent political figure, presented a significant professional opportunity. However, Squibb’s choice to honor his commitment to his son demonstrates a clear hierarchy of priorities.

As Squibb notes, his refusal was not a rejection of Burnham or the potential for mutual benefit:

Not because I am against him.

He further clarifies:

Not because I cannot help him (and our country) and vice versa.

This distinction is crucial, as Squibb is not advocating for a wholesale rejection of professional opportunities. Instead, he is illustrating a specific instance where a deeply personal and long-standing promise took precedence. In Squibb’s view, such personal commitments are paramount, serving as the bedrock of personal integrity and a powerful teaching tool for children.

Understanding and Empathy

The entrepreneur concludes his post with an optimistic outlook on how his decision would be perceived. Squibb expresses confidence that Burnham would understand his position, suggesting an underlying belief in mutual respect and the recognition of personal priorities among individuals in positions of influence.

“I am sure Andy would understand. Infact I know he does,” Squibb writes. This sentiment suggests that Squibb believes that even in high-stakes professional environments, there is room for understanding regarding personal commitments. His perspective offers a valuable reminder that maintaining personal integrity, particularly in family relationships, is a core value that transcends professional obligations.