Insights

In my opinion, you can't find two words that go together more than leadership and integrity. They almost define each other. They are connected by definition of terms in my opinion, as you can't have one (Leadership) without the other (Integrity). You can have integrity and not be a leader, I guess, but when you break it down to its root? -- not really. A person with high integrity will ALWAYS be a leader, if not in title or designation, certainly a DeFacto leader. Integrity is of such high value, especially in a business setting, that people will recognize it and gravitate to it -- it matters that much. People will seek it out and when they find it -- well they have found their North Star....or their leader.

Integrity is simply put for me - "do the right thing". But, wow, what does that mean. How do you know you have it -- or how do you get it or sharpen it? To me it starts at the basic level - "do the right thing". (Hey, he said that twice, must be important! :) ). OK, but why is that so hard?

Because the business world will test you, every day, on that simple premise. Doing the right thing -- however its defined will be hard. You will be tempted. Often. By friends and foes. Shortcuts will be offered. Deals will be presented. Promotions can be attained but cutting a corner, maybe betraying a trust -- or even sharing a secret. Temptations to advance your company, your career or your relationships with be all around you. Sounds troublesome, right? How do you stay the course? Avoid the short cuts to success that often come with peril? How do you succeed in such a world, while still holding your head high?

You...."Do the Right Thing". Easy? Nope. The best decision you will ever make? - Absolutely. Trust me, if you do it all, and do it well, but lack Integrity -- every success is hollow. But do it all, well and with Integrity? That's a win -- and you are now a Leader!

Three tips to help you remain focus on Leadership with Integrity:

1. If it was easy anyone could do it. Avoid the shortcut. Don't fall into the easy trap -- it should be hard and anything work fighting for usually is. Bear down, deal with the issues and work the problem.

2. The Golden Rule. Treat people the way you want to be treated. Master this and Integrity gets easier to achieve. Would you want someone to betray your confidentiality? No? Then keep theirs!

3. How does it feel? Listen to your inner voice. If it "feels" wrong it may very well be wrong. Follow your intuition. If you are questioning doing something...maybe you shouldn't. At the least, seek another opinion -- confirm that voice in your head!

Be a leader. Have Integrity. They go well together!