Integrity, a facet of moral character, connotes positive and virtuous attributes such as, honesty, truthfulness, straightforwardness, and forth rightfulness. It is the antithesis of lying, cheating and exaggerating.
When you have integrity, you keep your promises. Integrity is doing the right thing at all times and in all circumstances, whether or not anyone is watching. It takes courage to do the right thing, no matter what the consequences
It may seem like you can gain power quickly and easily if you cut corners and act without the constraints of morality. I have heard many people cheat when listing their qualifications on their resumes and also stories of marketers exaggerating the merit of their products. And the logic here is that the end justifies the means. Dishonesty may provide instant gratification in the moment, but it will never last. Sooner or later people find out the truth and the dishonest person loses the ability to be trusted. Warren Buffet said it best, "In looking for people to hire, look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And if they don't have the first one, the other two will kill you."
Integrity requires you to commit to adhere steadfastly to a set of strict moral or ethical codes. But it can degrade with time and if you are not watching yourself carefully you can can slip back. Building a reputation of integrity takes years, but it takes only a short time to lose.
You have integrity when no separation exists between what you say and what you do. There is a congruence here between words and actions. Integrity determines to a great extent the respect that others have for and you have for yourself.. As my father always reminded me, "Success will come and go, but integrity is there forever."
Some ways to practice having integrity:
1Do the right thing even if no one is watching
2Love and respect yourself and do the same for others without reservation
3Speak only when you know it is the truth
4Believe in yourself and others
5Listen to others to understand their desires, and encourage them to achieve them
6Treat everyone with fairness and impartiality
7Do what is morally right for the good of yourself and others
8Give time to a cause you believe in
9Take full responsibility for your actions and words
10Do not judge anyone; show mercy and kindness in all your actions
Having integrity is having something that endures. Success can come and go, but living with integrity is living with virtue.