Integrity Check

When we prioritize being loyal to a person or group over doing what we feel is right, we lose integrity.”
Stephen R. Covey

In the midst of an unprecedented era of corporate scandals and unethical behaviors in the business world, many companies have turned to the word “integrity” to help build consumer confidence and improve profitability. Integrity has many meanings but to me it is a complete adherence to high standards at all times, even when no one is watching. As in the business world, it is important for us as individuals to keep our integrity in tack by being honest, following through with what we say, and living high morale standards. Just like businesses, we need to earn and protect the trust of others in order to be good leaders, friends, and family members. Living with integrity will lead to a successful and more enjoyable life.

I recently heard a story about a historian from the United States who visited the Chinese National Archives in Beijing. During his visit, the American engaged in a conversation with a Chinese official at the archives who spoke of the importance of families and ancestors in the Chinese culture and traditions. This man then related a story about the tradition of honesty and integrity in his family.

While one of his ancient ancestors served as a government officer during one of the Chinese dynasties, a wealthy and powerful man approached him to ask for a favor. The wealthy man seeking the favor offered this man’s ancestor a very lucrative bribe. The wealthy man argued that no one would ever know. However, this Chinese official’s ancestor replied that he himself would know, the person offering the bribe would know, the earth would know and heaven would know and he refused to dishonor his position, his country, and himself. Since that time, this story has been repeated and shared throughout the generations of this man’s family whom have been known for their high levels of integrity and honesty. Thus, this family has upheld and lived by a family tradition of honesty and integrity ever since this one simple act. This government officer may have easily earned distinction in his own time, but his true greatness lies in the legacy of integrity he left his posterity.

In order to maintain a high level of integrity we must be honest in all of our dealings, we must practice what we preach, and we must follow through with commitments. As we do this, we will earn the respect and trust of others and we will set an example for others to follow. Once respect and trust are earned, our ability to influence and persuade others will greatly increase. Losing trust of co-workers, associates, friends, and family can be a very painful consequence as a result of dishonesty. Often, it may take a lifetime to restore the integrity you lost. Your personal integrity is one of your most prized possessions because no one can lower it or take it away from you. It is yours to keep or give away.

Thus, what legacy are we leaving for our family, friends, and co-workers? Like this Chinese officer’s ancestor, are we unwilling to compromise our integrity? Or do we give in to the pressures of the world to be dishonest and self-serving? Choose not to take the easy way out but instead, live a life that can be remembered for its integrity for many generations to come. We can do it!