When we are born, most of us are given a suitcase full of standards, acceptable behavior, things to learn, emotions, values & a whole load of do’s and don’ts. As we grow and progress in life we keep adding or throwing away some contents of this suitcase. Each of us thus become a product of the choices we have made or that we have consciously decided not to make.
In my case, when I was growing up, one of the principles in my house was that we had to tell the truth and that was one of the standards set as part of my suitcase. Lying, was something that was not acceptable no matter how painful it may be to speak the truth.
Children need rules to learn the difference between right and wrong. To a child, the difference between truth and lies is as crystal clear as the difference between black and white. However as we grow older, the concept of truth many times attains a different connotation and stating a small white lie or not stating some key facts might be considered appropriate in our own minds.
However, the problem is that each of us have different standards on why, what, when, and how we choose to state the truth or shade it. Integrity thus is sacrificed many times, though each human being may consider it as part of their integral values.
What is Integrity – To me it is the Congruence of I Believe, I Value, I Think, I Feel, I Say, I Do.
I N T E G R I T Y is:
Inner realization– There is a self-awareness of each of our actions and these actions are not just to please the outside world but one which satisfies our inner conscience.
Natural – To be You rather than someone else artificial and manufactured and be comfortable in your own skin. I stay true to myself and my style & I am always pushing myself to be aware of that & be original.
Trust– can be built and earned only if our audio and video is in sync. We have to walk the talk rather than talk the talk. Trust is a plant of slow growth and built over time by being consistent and reliable.
Excellent – Be outstanding in whatever you do. Setting standards in all we do and consistently following these standards.
Good– Be Kind, show gratitude and spread the good word and deed.
Respect- The measure of a man’s real character is what he would do if he knew he never would be found out. It is better to be respected than liked
Involvement – Let your Actions speak louder than words and be inspiring. Each of us must lead by example.
Thoughtful– Treat everyone just like the way you would like to be treated.
Yes to each of the above
It is important to nurture and maintain integrity in whatever we seek to believe, value, think, be, and do just like when you make the decision to plant a new seed and water it daily and take care even after the seed grows to a plant
Bottom-line Integrity once lost or compromised beyond recognition is very difficult to rebuild.
What does Integrity Mean to You. Please feel free to add your point of view in the comments section below. Thank you.
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