Importance of Integrity - How to Develop Personal Integrity
Integrity means an unwavering adherence to moral principles or ethical codes of conduct and having soundness of character. A person with integrity shows traits or characteristics such as honesty, courage, sincerity, fairness and congruency. He keeps his words, agreements and promises. He is truthful and sticks to his personal values even if it is unpopular because he knows that it is the right thing to do.
Integrity is one of the pillars of character. A person who has integrity and practice honesty makes an outstanding leader, a role model, great parent, spouse and friend.
People who make false promises or give lip service without the intention to fulfill their words, lie or purposely give wrong information or false hopes are bound to lose their credibility. These people may be able to fool others but not all the time. Once people realize their true character, they lose the trust and respect. Relationship fall apart or deteriorate because of the absence of personal integrity.
Identify Your Personal Values
Personal values are your beliefs on what you consider as important, morally right or ethical and they establish your character. Most of your decisions and actions are based on these values. If honesty is not one of your important values, you may have the tendency to lie when you are under pressure. If you have not set your value system, it's about time to list them down.
Right Thinking
Your thinking comprises of your perceptions and beliefs. If you have been thinking erroneous and dishonest thoughts, you become exactly as such. But, it's never too late to live with honor and adhere to a set of new moral ethics. All you need to do is alter your perceptions and reprogram your thinking. You do that by changing what you say and think to yourself. Once you correct your thoughts, your behavior will consequently follow.
Speak Truthfully
Speak truthfully. Don't exaggerate or give wrong information. If your listeners find out that you have lied, you will have difficulty trying to win back their trust. Furthermore, if you lie or exaggerate once, you are likely to repeat and it will become a habit.
Determine to Become a Good Example
You lead others by your examples. A simple way to teach, especially children and students, is to behave based on ethical and moral values. When you say you will do or stop doing something, fulfill it. So before you give your words, think through. Act responsibly and have the courage to speak the truth. You have also to exercise fairness and justice in your daily dealings with people. It doesn't matter who's right but what's right.
Mix With the Right People
Dishonest or deceitful people can influence your thinking and behavior. Unless you have developed high moral standards and pledge to adhere to your ethical code, you are more likely to get swayed subtly. The best thing to do is avoid these types of people and associate with those who exercise firm principles and values.
Treat People Fairly
A lot of unhappiness and grievances happen because employers, coworkers, parents and spouses are not treating each other fairly. You can show that you have personal integrity by not judging anyone based on your limited knowledge and perceptions. Make it a practice to show compassion in your relationships with others.
Emulate Others Who Have Firm Principles
Many successful people are men with grit. Look around you and find someone who has the trait. If you can't find any, read biographies. Learn how they behave, make choices, resolve conflicts and live by their values. Use their wisdom as your guiding principle.
Additional Resource for Personal Integrity
Cultivating an Unshakable Character
What Makes a Good Leader
Personal Integrity to Personal Growth Home
Source: http://www.about-personal-growth.com/personal-integrity.html
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