What is integrity? What exactly classifies someone as having integrity? Is it simply being honest in the moment? Or does it go deeper, rise higher. Is having integrity enough? Can anyone really define this quality?
in·teg·ri·ty /inˈteɡrədē/ noun
1. the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. "he is known to be a man of integrity"
Similar: honesty
uprightness
probity
rectitude
honor
honorableness
upstandingness
good character
principle(s)
ethics
morals
righteousness
morality
nobility
high-mindedness
right-mindedness
noble-mindedness
virtue
decency
fairness
scrupulousness
sincerity
truthfulness
trustworthiness
2. the state of being whole and undivided. "upholding territorial integrity and national sovereignty"
Hmm.. National Sovereignty?
Integrity is seeking help when we really need it, be it council, life coach, religion, self reliance.
Example. Hypothetically, someone had been a habitual liar, con man/woman, addict, alcoholic etc. Having found freedom from these character flaws behind a closed door with council.
Of course these characters believe they are the only one who knows and see’s these struggles and now has found within themselves integrity through council. Feeling complete and successful.
All the while never having apologized to those that have suffered at the hand of their dishonor and dishonesty. Still and Yet, “said person” is no longer living with these problems. Is this integrity?
Everyone eventually sees the change, however left feeling hurt, and neglected, without recognition for having been lied to, conned, etc. Does this classify still as Integrity simply because “subject” has changed their ways?
Is integrity an opportunity to acknowledge our faults in conversation, humility and an honorable apology? Even if the Humility and apology isn’t accepted, This is beautiful. This is integrity. This is success.
When we can share out loud the flaws we had, find humility. Here is where success begins. Success is not letting self down. Integrity is personal.
