Know the Traits Associated with Integrity
As a freelancer, I've spent a lot of time thinking about what it takes to be successful.
I've learned that there are multiple paths to success, but first one must act with integrity.
Inside this article:
Definition of Integrity
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines integrity as being incorruptible (having strong moral principles), sound (unimpaired/free from defects), and complete (the state of being whole and not divided).
According to the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas in Austin, integrity involves consistently adhering to a code of ethics and values - even when it might be easier or more convenient to act otherwise.
If I could teach only one value to live by, it would be this: Success will come and go, but integrity is forever. Integrity means doing the right thing at all times and in all circumstances, whether or not anyone is watching. It takes having the courage to do the right thing, no matter what the consequences will be. Building a reputation of integrity takes years, but it takes only a second to lose, so never allow yourself to ever do anything that would damage your integrity. - Amy Rees Anderson, Forbes
What Having Integrity Means
Integrity is not about being perfect.
Integrity is about consistency.
Specifically, integrity is about consistently aligning your actions and behavior with your deeply held moral principles and always striving to do what is right in accordance with your higher values.
The team at MindTools, says that "Integrity is a choice we make, and it's a choice we must keep making, every moment of our lives."
"Perfectionism is a well-worn groove, an attempt to control the environment so that you’re safe.
Integrity, caring, is a vulnerability, a willingness to extend your heart, to care for people in ways that make a difference to them. This includes following through with what you’ve promised." - Mark Silver for Medium.
There Are Seven Traits Associated with Integrity
As identified by BetterUp, having integrity means you exhibit the following seven traits:
Gratitude
Honesty
Responsibility
Respect
Trustworthiness
Helpfulness
Flexibility
Let's explore these traits in more detail...
1. Gratitude
For centuries, numerous religions have taught that gratitude is a moral virtue that leads to a happier, more authentic life.
And over the last three decades, modern researchers have collected data that shows the physical and psychological benefits of gratitude.
For example, in a study by Northeastern University, researchers found that people who show gratitude are less likely to cheat; thus, they exhibit higher levels of integrity.
Another study by Robert Emmons and Michael McCullough, found that people who try to express gratitude tend to lead happier lives.
2. Honesty
Honesty and integrity are similar but different.
Honesty is keeping it real and sticking to the facts. Integrity encompasses multiple traits, like honesty, consistently happening over time.
You can be an honest person without having integrity, but you cannot be a person of integrity unless you're consistently honest and exhibit other traits of integrity.
3. Responsibility
People with integrity take responsibility for their actions.
They honestly own up to their mistakes and don't try to shift blame onto others.
This level of accountability in your dealings with others is needed to build trust and credibility.
4. Respect
Ever work with someone who didn't respect your boundaries?
For example, they continued to bring up a certain topic, even though you told them several times that the topic was off limits.
Or they scheduled over blocked off time on your calendar?
Or worked for a company that allowed dishonest and unprofessional behavior?
Or disrespected your own boundaries, and worked over a weekend when you promised yourself that you'd use your time off to rest and rejuvenate?
Boundaries teach you and others what behavior is and is not allowed. And boundaries are critical to building trust and respect.
5. TrustworthinessÂ
Trustworthiness is like honesty but different in that trustworthiness implies that a person will behave in a way that is consistent with their previous honest, respectful behavior and that aligns with their moral and ethical values.
6. Helpfulness
BetterUp says that people with integrity are helpful in a specific way. People with integrity help others "without sacrificing their own well-being" which contributes to the development of resiliency.
7. Flexibility
People with integrity are more likely to have a "growth mindset" which means they see mistakes or failures as a learning opportunity.
People with a growth mindset are resilient which means they have a flexible mindset and can pivot or "adjust easily to misfortune or pain".
Integrity in the Workplace
Ten signs your workplace has integrity:
1. Honesty
Employees with workplace integrity are truthful and sincere in their interactions with colleagues, superiors, clients, and other stakeholders. They provide accurate information, report issues honestly, and do not engage in deception or misleading practices.
2. Transparency
Transparent individuals are open about their actions, decisions, and intentions. They communicate openly with colleagues, superiors, and clients, sharing relevant information and avoiding hidden agendas or secretive behavior.
3. Accountability
Integrity at work includes taking responsibility for one's actions, decisions, and mistakes. When errors occur, individuals with workplace integrity acknowledge them, learn from them, seek solutions, and work to rectify any negative consequences.
4. Trustworthiness
Trust is a cornerstone of effective workplace relationships. Employees who demonstrate integrity consistently uphold their commitments, meet deadlines, and follow through on promises. Their reliability and consistency build trust among colleagues and superiors.
5. Ethical Decision-Making
Ethical decision-making involves making decisions that align with moral principles, even when faced with challenging dilemmas. It means considering the broader consequences of one's actions and choosing what is right over what may be expedient or self-serving. This extends to business decisions and practices within the organization such as financial transactions, customer relationships, and vendor partnerships.
6. Adherence to Policies and Regulations
Individuals with workplace integrity adhere to company policies, industry regulations, and legal standards. They do not engage in unethical or illegal behavior, and they encourage colleagues to do the same.
7. Fair Treatment
Integrity extends to treating colleagues and subordinates with fairness, respect, and dignity. It includes avoiding discrimination, favoritism, or bias and ensuring that all individuals are given equal opportunities and consideration.
8. Conflict Resolution
Employees with workplace integrity seek constructive and ethical ways to resolve conflicts and disputes. They do not resort to manipulation, gossip, or unethical tactics when facing disagreements.
9. Leadership and Role Modeling
Leaders with integrity set a positive example for their teams. They lead by ethical principles, demonstrating consistency in behavior and ethical decision-making. Their integrity fosters a culture of trust and ethical conduct within the organization.
10. Community and Social Responsibility
Some organizations value integrity not only within the workplace but also in their contributions to the community and society. This may involve ethical practices in corporate social responsibility and philanthropy.
Four Benefits of Integrity
Acting with integrity helps you build stronger, more positive relationships - both personal and professional, according to studies listed in the Authentic Happiness Coaching Newsletter.
Organizations with an integrity strategy are more likely to achieve sustainable, long-term success, according to research cited in PostivePhyschology.
People with integrity are more likely to lead happier, more harmonious lives, as noted in this study in ScienceDirect.
People with integrity have a lower risk for depression, anxiety, and heart disease, according to a study by Harvard and the Human Flourishing Program.
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