I am quite sure it is a combination of all the above. The "face" thing isn't the sole blame for their actions but I feel it is a powerful contributor.

I think Helen sleeps well at night feeling that she is doing nothing wrong. That these are all things that need to be done to be successful in business. But her company will always struggle if not die. It most likely won't grow. Bad news spreads faster than good and it catches up with you. I hope she sees that now.

Unfortunately, I think the "face" thing is still blocking her from realizing this.