Among the various characteristics leaders and followers need to possess, integrity may possibly sit at the top. Defined, integrity means making the correct choice when faced between right and wrong. It further encompasses adherence to ethics and morals, and is often linked with honesty.
How is integrity instilled in a person?
Integrity begins before a person is faced with a decision of right or wrong. Should I tell the truth or should I lie? Should I follow through with what I said I would do or blow off this responsibility? Should I study or cheat? It’s much easier to make the right decisions, if individuals have prepared themselves for such situations. Individuals, who possess integrity, commit to choosing right before they find themselves in a situation, which requires action.
To be a person of high integrity, go the extra mile, going more than promised. If you have an appointment, you should be early. You respect other person's time, you do not come late. Coming late just communicates, that your time is more important than theirs.
We have been talking about going extra mile, doing more than promised, being on time for appointments, respecting the other person's time, making promises that you keep. If you really want to go the extra mile, what you should really do is under – promise and over – deliver. That is, promise less but give more than the person expects. That will amaze them, they will feel good about you and you will feel good about yourself.
Personal integrity is key to building trust with others. Integrity is not determined by circumstances, not based on credentials, and not to be confused with reputation. One can become a person of integrity by committing oneself to honesty, reliability and confidentiality; deciding ahead of time, doing what you should do instead of what you want to do.
Integrity is a personal value that everyone has to work for. It needs self – discipline, inner trust and a decision to be relentlessly honest in all situations in our lives.
MS. JOSIELIZA CHARCOS
Research Assistant
PRD Department
Nov. 28, 2011 Flag Ceremony
