Integrity

“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted in important affairs.” – Albert Einstein.

Many institutions value Integrity where the word is in their mission statements, vision statements, value statements, core values, and so on. Even so, many of the leaders within those institutions will speak highly about their value system.

Integrity is a quality many leaders look for in other people, in recruiting and hiring; yet, those same leaders struggle to maintain Integrity themselves.

The simplest act can compromise our values.

I spoke to a Police Captain about the importance of Loyalty, Respect, Duty, Self-less Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage (LRDSHIP), which are the values I have practiced for over 20+ years.

Notice the word “practice”!

Anyone moving up in the world as a parent, teacher, coach, or climbing the ranks in business, military, or academia – our value system is constantly being tested. We must practice these values daily.

If the Police Captain is going to lunch one day, and as he is walking out of his office, the phone rings. The administrative assistant notifies the Captain that someone wishes to speak to him on the other line; yet, the Captain tells the assistant that he is out to lunch and take a message. He walks out the door.

Nevertheless, the Captain has just compromised his Integrity.

That small act notified the entire office that the Captain lacks trustworthiness, transparency, dependability, honesty – bottom line integrity. Tony Dungy said, “Integrity is the choice between what’s convenient and what’s right.”

Again, many leaders talk about Integrity being a high priority in the organization; yet, those same leaders struggle to maintain Integrity themselves.

Integrity Violations

As a leader, the integrity violation can tear the organization apart – causing mistrust, uncertainty, and lack of transparency. The administrative assistant says if the Captain will dismiss that caller, what else is he willing to ignore or not be transparent with.

Yet, if you are reading this blog post, you probably think I’m not a leader, and I would never be dishonest. However, I have an essential news flash for you.

Integrity is also about having that tough conversation – with your spouse, friend, coworker, employees, family members, and so on. When mistakes are made, or challenges are being faced, we must have the courage to be open and honest with people. Tell them what they do not what to hear.

In general, acting with Integrity is essential even if others do not value it.