Integrity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a way of living. It’s about standing by your values, being honest, and doing what’s right, even when it’s tough.
People who live with deep integrity often follow certain principles that guide their actions and decisions. They aren’t just walking the talk; they’re living it.
These principles aren’t just for the high and mighty. They’re for you and me, and anyone who wants to live a life of honesty, respect, and genuine kindness.
In this article, we’ll delve into the 8 principles that people with deep integrity often follow for good living. Trust me; these are principles you’ll want to integrate into your own life.
1) Truth above all
If there’s one thing people with deep integrity have in common, it’s their dedication to the truth.
It might sound simple, but in a world filled with half-truths and misinformation, standing by the truth can often feel like swimming against the current.
People with deep integrity understand this. They know that honesty isn’t always the easy path, but they choose it anyway because they believe it’s the right thing to do.
They don’t just tell the truth when it’s convenient. They tell it even when it’s uncomfortable or difficult. And they do so not for personal gain, but because they believe in transparency and authenticity.
This principle isn’t just about speaking the truth, either. It’s about living it – in their actions, decisions, and even their thoughts.
So if you’re looking to enhance your own integrity, start with the truth. Embrace it, live it, and stand by it – no matter what.
2) Responsible accountability
People with deep integrity know the importance of taking responsibility for their actions. They don’t shy away from the consequences of their decisions, whether good or bad.
Let me share a personal example.
Once, I was leading a team on a crucial project at work. Due to some misjudgments on my part, we missed a critical deadline, which put the project at risk.
Instead of pointing fingers at my team or coming up with excuses, I decided to take responsibility. I went to my boss, admitted my mistakes, and shared the steps I was taking to rectify the situation.
Sure, it was uncomfortable, and I had to swallow my pride. But acting with integrity meant owning up to my errors and taking steps to make things right.
People with deep integrity don’t run from their mistakes. They face them head-on, learn from them, and use them as stepping stones towards growth and improvement. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being accountable.
3) Consistent authenticity
Authenticity is the cornerstone of integrity. It’s about being true to who you are, what you believe in, and how you behave, even when no one is watching.
In a study conducted by the Journal of Business Ethics, it was found that companies led by authentic leaders had higher levels of employee satisfaction and performance.
People with deep integrity don’t waver in their authenticity. They don’t compromise their values or principles for temporary gains or to please others.
Instead, they consistently show up as their genuine selves, and that authenticity becomes a guiding light – not just for them, but for those around them too.
So, if you’re striving for deep integrity, remember to stay true to who you are and let your genuine self shine through. It’s your most powerful asset.
4) Respect for others
People with deep integrity recognize the inherent value of every individual. They treat everyone with respect, regardless of their status, background or beliefs.
This respect is not limited to just being polite. It encompasses acknowledging others’ perspectives, listening actively when others speak, and treating everyone fairly and equally.
They understand that every person has unique experiences and viewpoints that are just as valid as their own. They don’t belittle or dismiss others but strive to learn from them instead.
Respecting others is a foundational principle for these individuals. By doing so, they not only foster stronger, more meaningful relationships but also create an environment of mutual trust and understanding. So, if you’re aspiring to live with deep integrity, start by respecting those around you. It’s a small step that can have a significant impact.
5) Unwavering empathy
At the core of people with deep integrity is a heart that genuinely cares for others. They don’t just understand empathy; they live it.
They’re not afraid to put themselves in other people’s shoes, to feel their pain, their joy, their struggles. They recognize that we all have our battles and that a little kindness can go a long way in making someone’s day better.
Their empathy isn’t selective. It extends to everyone they encounter – from the homeless person on the street to the CEO in the boardroom.
This ability to empathize deeply with others is not a sign of weakness. Instead, it’s a testament to their strength and their capacity to love and understand.
So remember, if we want to live with deep integrity, let’s allow our hearts to feel for others. In doing so, we’ll not only be enriching our lives but also making the world a little bit kinder.
6) Courageous humility
Humility is a trait not often associated with courage, but people with deep integrity know otherwise. They understand that it takes courage to admit when you’re wrong, to ask for help, and to put others before yourself.
For instance, I was always someone who prided myself on being independent. Asking for help felt like admitting weakness. But then came a time when I was faced with a challenge that I couldn’t handle alone.
Instead of letting my pride get in the way, I reached out for assistance. It was humbling, yes, but I learned that there’s courage in admitting you don’t have all the answers and that we’re all interdependent.
People with deep integrity aren’t afraid to show their humble side. They know that everyone has something to teach them and they’re always ready to learn.
In the grand scheme of things, they understand that they’re a small part of a vast universe – and that’s perfectly okay.
7) Persistent resilience
Life is full of ups and downs, and people with deep integrity know this all too well. They’re not immune to hardships or failures. But what sets them apart is their resilience.
They understand that setbacks are a natural part of life. Instead of letting these challenges break them, they use them as stepping stones to come back stronger.
Their resilience isn’t about being stoic or emotionless. It’s about acknowledging their emotions, allowing themselves to feel, and then finding the strength to move forward.
They know that it’s not about how many times you fall but how many times you get back up. And so, they persist, proving that their integrity isn’t just skin deep – it’s ingrained in their very core.
So, if you want to live with deep integrity, embrace resilience. Understand that challenges are not roadblocks but catalysts for growth. And remember, it’s okay to stumble as long as you keep moving forward.
8) Unconditional kindness
People with deep integrity understand that kindness is not merely an act, but a lifestyle. They strive to be kind, not because they expect anything in return, but because they believe in the inherent goodness of spreading positivity.
They know that kindness isn’t just about grand gestures. It’s found in the small, everyday actions – a smile to a stranger, a helping hand to a colleague, or a comforting word to a friend.
They believe that everyone they meet is fighting their own battles, and a little kindness can make a big difference.
So, if you want to live with deep integrity, cultivate kindness. Not just towards others, but towards yourself too. After all, true integrity starts with being kind to oneself and extends outward like ripples in a pond.
Essence: It’s a journey
In the grand tapestry of life, integrity is not merely a trait but a lifelong journey. It’s about constantly striving to align your actions with your values, even when the road gets tough.
These eight principles aren’t just ideals or lofty goals. They’re practical, realistic, and applicable in everyday life. They are not about being perfect but about being human – flawed, yet ever-evolving.
The philosopher Socrates once said, “The way to gain a good reputation is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear.” In essence, integrity is about becoming the person you believe you ought to be.
People with deep integrity are not born; they are made. Made through their choices, their actions, and their unwavering commitment to live by these principles.
In the end, integrity is not just about how we interact with the world around us. It’s also about how we treat ourselves. It’s about being honest with ourselves, respecting our own boundaries, and standing by our beliefs.
So as you move forward in your journey of life, remember these principles. Embrace them. Live them. And as you do, you’ll find that you’re not just living a good life – you’re living a life of deep integrity.
