Showing integrity in life involves adhering to a set of moral and ethical principles, being honest, and consistently acting in ways that reflect your values. Here are several ways to demonstrate integrity:
- Be Honest: Always tell the truth, even when it’s difficult. This builds trust and credibility with others. It’s really important in business, because your reputation, both as an employee internally and/or as perceived by your customers is paramount.
As a friend, the same applies; even if you feel you’re going to hurt someone, it’s best to be up front. - Keep Promises: Follow through on commitments and promises. If you say you will do something, make sure you do it.
- Admit Mistakes: No one is perfect, so it’s important to own up to your errors and take responsibility for your actions. Apologize sincerely and work to make amends and remember that it’s often a lot easier to correct mistakes and get back on course up front.
- Be Reliable: Be someone others can depend on. Show up on time, meet deadlines, and be consistent in your actions and behavior. If you become aware that anything might slip, again it’s best to let people know as soon as possible.
- Respect Others: Treat everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their status or how they treat you. It’s a reflection of who you are as a person.
- Stand Up for What’s Right: Speak out against injustice and unethical behavior, even when it’s unpopular or risky to do so. Too often I hear people say CBA, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t try and make a difference.
- Stay True to Your Values: Live in accordance with your principles and beliefs, even when it’s challenging or inconvenient. It’s not about having arguments with others, but standing firm and not allowing yourself to be manipulated.
- Be Fair: Make decisions based on fairness and impartiality. Avoid favoritism and discrimination.
- Practice Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of others and maintain confidentiality when entrusted with sensitive information. Loyalty to others is so important and lays a solid groundwork for long term relationships.
- Act Transparently: Be open and clear about your intentions, motives, and actions. Avoid deceit or manipulation.
- Show Humility: Recognize your limitations and the contributions of others. Be willing to learn and grow from experiences.
- Be Accountable: Hold yourself accountable for your actions and accept the consequences, both good and bad.
- Demonstrate Empathy: Show understanding and compassion for others’ perspectives and situations. Listen actively and supportively.
- Avoid Gossip: Refrain from spreading rumours or speaking ill of others behind their backs. Focus on constructive conversations. Rumours are often based on quicksand or statements from others that may not come from a genuine motive.
- Work Ethically: Perform your work duties with integrity, following the rules and standards of your profession.
- Be Consistent: Apply your principles consistently across all areas of your life, whether at work, home, or in social settings.
I really enjoy working with people who demonstrate high integrity because you tend to achieve a lot more. You’re not having to check them all the time and they are reliable.
And the best thing: you’re not battling an ego that’s going to affect either a project or your relationship with them !
