Feb 10
5
Integrity
Integrity is something, I’m always interested in talking about, writing about or discussing. So it came as no surprise to me when I felt the urge to write a blog about the subject. I’ve heard a number of people speak on the subject; more recently I’ve been asked questions about it from blog readers, what my thoughts were on integrity. So I thought, what better than to write a post on the subject!
When you hear the word integrity it will bring to mind your own images, views and interpretation as to what it means, how it fits into your life and the world at large! What do you understand integrity to mean? I’d be interested to hear what your views are.
Definition
Lets begin with a definition; the following is from dictionary.com
- adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty
- the state of being whole, entire, or undiminished: to preserve the integrity of the empire
- a sound, unimpaired, or perfect condition: the integrity of a ship’s hull
Origin and history
c.1450, “wholeness, perfect condition,” from Old French integrité, from Latin. integritatem (nom. integritas) “soundness, wholeness,” from integer “whole”. Sense of “uncorrupted virtue”.
Practising Integrity
Understanding what integrity is and practising it, are quite obviously two different things. Having the knowledge is one thing; taking the action and putting that knowledge into practise is ‘where the rubber hits the road’. It is certainly worth the effort of learning the knowledge and applying it; the process will ensure a more completeness of character. When your friends speak to you, ask you questions or interact with you, they would prefer to know you are person of integrity. If you were to respond in a different way, depending on the company you are keeping or the environment you are in, it wouldn’t help your reputation among your peers and friends.
Recently in the UK, a number of politicians have received allegations of inappropriately claiming expenses; whether the allegations are true or not, their integrity has been seriously damaged. So whether you are a person of integrity or not, care has to be taken when in a position of trust. As the politicians have discovered, it’s so easy to fall victim of the circumstances you are in, especially if you have principles that when they are tested, fall at the first fence.
Dealing with integrity
How often have you been on the receiving end of another person’s lack of integrity, perhaps they were unaware of their behaviour and the effect it had on them and those around them. If you’re fortunate and not had to suffer another person’s questionable ethical behaviour, there’s probably occasions where you’ve seen it take place and another person be on the receiving end.
How does it make you feel when you see or hear about these instances; whether you or another person is the victim? How do you respond? Do you respond within your own morals and principles? Is there a nice little step by step process you can follow to sort the problem out? I wish it was that easy but it comes down to your own integrity and morals. Each situation will be different, the solution is to be aware of your own abilities and creativity you have to deal with the situation. If you continually follow your principles on a daily basis, you can’t do anything else but respond in the only way that they’ll allow you to. It’s no good imitating others in the hope of solving your problems; all that will do is hide a problem with another persons morals (strategy).
A great starting point for dealing with these situations is a check-in on your own principles. If you’re not sure what your principles are, make a list of what you do each day. Are you living by your principles or those of another person? Who’s controlling your life? If another person is pulling your strings, your first step is to cut the strings and begin to live your life on your terms.
Once you’re back in control, the next step is to take the list of things you do each day and decide what is welcome and what has outstayed it’s welcome. For much of the time, the decisions you make here can be very much based on ‘gut’ instinct. If you think you’ve been cheating on yourself, by doing something you don’t really agree with because another person wanted you to do it; it’s time for it to go. Honesty is a principle and it starts at home!
Continue this process through your list; if you think it stays, let is stay, otherwise let it go because it probably belongs to another person. This process will get you started and give you a clearer indication about your principles.
When you’ve identified your principles, make a list and a mental note of them; then commit to assimilating them into your everyday life and live by them. Make sure you live by them with some consistency, without faltering. Now your integrity will begin to be recognised by others for the right reasons. Don’t forget, though be patient with yourself this will take time, your personal development is one of your greatest assets; it needs nurturing.
“Rome wasn’t built in a day” Proverb
Thank you for reading, please let me know what you thinking; add to the conversation in the comments. While you’re here, please take the time to sign up for Diary4life newsletter or alternatively you may prefer, to subscribe for regular updates in your favourite reader or by email.
photo credit: h.koppdelaney
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View Comments "Integrity"
A really nice post Paul
Integrity is key for me. I know that no matter what anyone is doing or what I go through in life, that if I maintain my integrity then I will be happy and content. My principles help me to stick to it and by holding firm to them I would I can make a difference in the world.
Your integrity is the only thing that you truly own…… you should guard it like your life.
this is tuff, I would have to say sticking to your guns as i would call it is very important but what happens when the effect of others shoot yours down the drain? good question. Working on this. Great job.
You always make a difference, and are a very special person.
Ben, Thanks for your comment. It's great to hear you're a man of principles; which I think is reflected in your writing. Keeping to your principles is a very admirable thing and a rare commodity in some circles.
Michael, thanks for your comment. You have made a very valid comment; yes integrity is something to be well guarded. Perhaps this comment should be broadcast a little wider!!
Winnie, thank you for your comment. Yes, you're right it is tough, very tough for some people. However, allowing the effects of others to affect your principles suggests you may not be in full control!!! Take that control back and be true to yourself.