Business Bottom Lines – Triple or Quadruple?

Bottom lines, in doing business, can be similar to purposes. There are reasons for an individual or company why they start a business.

There are various words to describe a startup. Words such as beginner, pioneer, newbie, innovator, etc. But the basic meaning is simply, a “new start.” Anyone who decided to take the first “step” is a startup.

There are different reasons that drive people why they want to do business. Material or financial drive is obviously the popular one. This reason undoubtedly motivates everybody. Do business to earn money. “I want to quit my job” or “be your own boss” is another reason that drives people to start in business.

Passion for something is another reason. Just like the old saying goes, “do what you love.” Sometimes a hobby can turn into a business opportunity. What is your reason for starting a business? What is your bottom line?

Triple Bottom Line

The triple bottom line in business focuses on three areas: economic, social, and environmental. Economic is the basic and obvious reason for doing business. We all have basic needs such as food and shelter. These basic needs are under the area of economics

Social responsibility in the community is another reason for others why they do business. They think that business can be a means to improve our society in general. The environmental purpose is highly related to social responsibility. But it focuses primarily on preserving nature and our environment.

Quadruple Bottom Line

The quadruple bottom line includes another aspect – the spiritual. It focuses on four areas: economic, social, environmental, and spiritual.

The spiritual aspect is about doing business “for the Glory of God.” Wayne Grudem’s Business for the Glory of God shows how our work and businesses can be dedicated for God’s glory.

In whatever we do, happiness and fulfillment happen when we know that we are glorifying the Lord. There is a sense of inner joy. If you make profits, serve others, and you are also glorifying God, that is an experience of real fulfillment.

Related: When is the Perfect Time to Start a Business?