5 Rules of Business According to Breaking Bad

*Warning: May Contain Spoilers

On Sunday, AMC launched a primetime takeover with the season 6 premier of “Breaking Bad.” And just like that only seven episodes remain before this critical darling is a wrap.

For those unfamiliar with the show, “Breaking Bad” tells the story of Walter White (played by Bryan Cranston), a hapless high school chemistry teacher turned ruthless meth king. Recently diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Walt begins cooking meth to pay for treatments and ensure his family is provided for after his death. With the help of a former student, Jesse Pinkman (played by Aaron Paul), Walt’s get-rich-quick scheme eventually blossoms into the “empire business.”

Over the course of the series, Walt’s management style becomes increasingly unhinged. But through thoughtful writing and compelling characters, “Breaking Bad” proves it’s more than just a show highlighting the financial rewards of illegal activities. As Walt seemingly travels on a road to nowhere, there are many lessons to be learned—even if our industry lacks the surprising twists of the Albuquerque meth business. What you choose to do with these 5 tips is up to you. Just remember to “tread lightly.”

1) Don’t Sacrifice Quality

“You and I will not make garbage. We will produce a chemically pure and stable product that performs as advertised. No adulterants. No baby formula. No chili powder.”
– Walter White

Operating under the alias “Heisenberg,” Walt’s success largely stems from his “blue meth.” Because his product is the best on the market, 99.1 percent pure, Walt is able to command respect and sell at a higher price than his competitors. Even when Jesse points out the convenience of distributing something that’s “good enough” (because, really, can customers tell the difference?), Walt is unwilling to compromise. Are you staying true to your company’s mission statement? Or, are you taking shortcuts?