Integrity Revisited
Let’s be honest…finding people we feel comfortable trusting is tough. Whether it is in the political arena, business, education, friends…something is missing in the majority of people we run into on a daily basis.
That missing piece is often integrity. I know we talked about it last week, but it is really important. And it is often defined in many different ways.
Integrity is one of those words that we pretend to understand, but in reality most of us don’t get. Simply stated, integrity is having a consistency between what we say and what we do. A person with integrity can be trusted because their words and their actions speak the same language.
Why is this so difficult? According to author Charles Swindoll, “The screams and shouts of the majority have a way of intimidating integrity.” The reality is that people with integrity in today’s society are getting harder and harder to find. Negative peer pressure can be a difficult battle to fight, especially when we feel alone. In a “get ahead at all costs” society, those living with integrity are a challenge to find.
Too many times in competitive environments, ethical considerations seem to be the first things to go. But without integrity and honesty, trust cannot exist. And without trust, the team can’t function together effectively.
So, WHAT do we do about it?
Here are five things to consider when addressing the importance of personal integrity:
Learn to live a character driven lifestyle- According to author and coach Pat Williams, character is “the sum of all of the positive traits and strengths that enable a player to compete effectively and cleanly, in a way that moves the team closer to its goals and sets a positive example to fellow teammates and spectators.” Character is who you are and what you do when no one else is looking. Why is this important? Because someone is always watching! Be aware of your influence and be a positive example of what you value at all times. Hold yourself accountable!
Be an honest person- Honesty and integrity are two sides of the same coin. To be an honest person means to be committed to the truth. Always let truth dictate the direction you should take. Be consistent about being honest with yourself and with others. Honesty and integrity cannot be measured by varying degrees…you either are or you are not! There is no gray area.
Be courageous- Have the courage to act with integrity even when it goes against the current of society. If you know it is true and you know it is right, don’t be afraid to do the right thing. People of courage inspire others to dare great things.
Make integrity one of your most important team values- All team decisions and activities must be viewed through the lens of organizational values. Make integrity one of those values. Never compromise on holding yourself and your teammates accountable for working and competing with integrity. Winning is important, but winning the right way is the ultimate goal!
Develop a personal statement of purpose- What things are most important to you? Take the time to sit down and articulate in writing the things that you value most. Post the statement in a place where you can review it daily. This personal purpose statement can serve as an important reminder of the things you hold most dear. Say it first in writing, and then seek to consistently live it every day.
You can only be your best when you are living a truly authentic life. When you are being true to your own character, you are being honest with yourself and with others. Ken Blanchard says, “Authenticity bridges the gap between what we say and what we do.”
Challenging words, indeed. As leaders….as people….we use our influence for good when we say what we mean and mean what we say. Character and integrity matters!