Wisdom Wednesday: Actions Have Consequences—Just Ask Seat 14A

“Actions have consequences.”
We’ve all heard it. Most of us have said it. But do we really understand the ripple effect our behavior can have—not only on ourselves but on those around us?

Just ask the guy in seat 14A on my flight home from Vermont yesterday.

The flight had already been delayed twice. As we finally boarded the smaller aircraft, passengers were asked to gate-check larger carry-on bags—standard procedure. But 14A wasn’t having it.

He argued. He tried to push past the flight attendant with his bag. She held her ground, firmly saying, “No sir, you must comply.” When the back-and-forth didn’t stop, she tapped on the cockpit door. The pilot stepped out and reinforced the instruction. 14A finally gave in, though not without muttering under his breath—including a comment directed at me as he passed by.

That should’ve been the end of it. But it wasn’t.

Once seated, he continued his antics—this time making obscene hand gestures toward the flight attendant in the front jump seat. She quietly called the rear flight attendant and asked her to keep an eye on him during inflight service. But then she paused—because her inner voice said,
“Why would we risk that?”

She didn’t. She called the pilot and requested a return to the concourse, citing concern that his behavior could escalate once in the air. The plane turned around, and U.S. Marshals met us at the gate to remove him.

Yes, we were delayed again—but no one complained. We applauded her decision and appreciated her commitment to protecting everyone on board.

The Business Lesson in Seat 14A

You may not be flying on a small regional jet today, but if you work in a law firm—or in any business—this story applies to you.

• Disrespect has consequences.
  Whether you’re dealing with a client, co-worker, or court clerk, the tone you set matters. Aggression and condescension can damage your credibility—and your relationships—faster than any missed deadline.

• Culture is built moment by moment.
  Just like that flight attendant’s quick, decisive action created a sense of calm and trust for the rest of us, leaders must do the same—set the tone, protect the culture, and hold the line on what’s acceptable.

• It’s not just about you.
  Let’s say that again – it’s not just about you. 14A may have thought he was asserting his rights. In reality, he disrupted the schedule and comfort of everyone around him. In business, when ego trumps collaboration, everyone loses.

• Your actions build your brand.
  Whether you’re a managing partner or a first year associate, how you respond to frustration, how you treat others, and how you act when no one’s watching—that’s the real brand you’re building.

So, on this Wisdom Wednesday, take a moment to reflect:

• Do your words and actions align?

• Are you building a strong team or eroding trust?

• Are you focused on solutions—or stewing in frustration?

Because whether you’re at the office or sitting on a delayed flight, your actions matter. They ripple outward. And they always leave a mark—good or bad. As a witness to all of it from seat 3A, I made a point to express my support and appreciation for the flight attendant’s calm, decisive actions. I was later asked if I’d be willing to provide a statement—and without hesitation, I said yes. Supporting those who do the right thing in difficult situations matters. In business and in life, we should all strive to be the kind of colleague, leader, or client who reinforces that truth.

Looking to align your internal culture with your external brand?
Let’s talk. Real growth starts on the inside.

Cover photo of the sunset taken as we returned to the gate—something we never would’ve seen without the detour caused by 14A.