Some rules can’t be broken, like the speed of light. As much as the executives might want you to, you’re just not going faster than 186,000 miles per second (300,000 kph outside the United States).
Some rules should never be broken, like ignoring attendance at a mandatory meeting, and really aren’t they all mandatory? Yes, yes the are. Adhere to the rules and take attendance.
Some rules shouldn’t be broken too often. For instance when HR says stop referring to shorter employees as “Oompa-Loompas” you should probably listen. Nobody likes them, they’re just too freaky. But nicknames create a personal connection between you and your employee, and who can fault that? Nobody, not even HR. Since everyone likes the adorable and helpful Munchkins from Wizard of Oz. Oust the Oompas and lets say hello to the Lollypop Guild!
Some rules you break all the time. You’re late for an important meeting (and really aren’t they all important?) but some anti-social slacker left barely one cup of coffee in the pot. What’s more important: making coffee or making that meeting? Honestly, is it your fault that the someone was so inconsiderate as to not make another pot when they knew there wouldn’t be enough for the next person? No. Besides, you have places to go, people to see, meetings to hold. Break the unwritten coffee rule, take a half cup, leaving plenty for the next person, and go meet.
But there is a special class of rules that can, but must never be broken. A class of rules that deserve exceptional treatment where the letter, spirit and intent not should, but MUST, be adhered to at all times. Those special rules have a name: arbitrary and capricious.
What? Arbitrary AND capricious? Yes arbitrary AND capricious.
What kind of rules fall into this special category?