Living with high integrity isn’t always simple. You’re often faced with decisions where you could take the easy way out or stick to your principles.
When you choose your principles, that’s when you know you’re living with true integrity.
I’m Lachlan Brown, founder of Hack Spirit and a mindfulness enthusiast. I know that maintaining integrity can feel challenging, but psychology offers valuable insights to help.
So, let’s get started.
1) Consistency in words and actions
There’s a saying that actions speak louder than words, and this couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to integrity. Those who live with high integrity tend to have a noticeable consistency between what they say and what they do.
People with high integrity don’t just talk a good game, but they actually follow through. They stand by their word, even when it’s not the easy or popular choice.
Their actions are guided by a consistent set of values, rather than changing with the wind.
This consistency not only builds trust with others, but also gives them a solid foundation to navigate through life’s complexities.
Psychology affirms this trait as one of the hallmarks of high integrity. In fact, Carl Jung, a renowned psychologist once said, “You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do”.
This quote sums up the essence of integrity: being true to your words through your actions.
2) Owning up to mistakes
Another sign of a person with high integrity is their readiness to admit their errors. None of us are perfect, and we all make mistakes. But, it’s how we handle these missteps that display our true character.
Let me share a personal example. A few years back, I organized a big mindfulness event through Hack Spirit. Due to an oversight on my part, we experienced a significant technical glitch during the live event. As you can imagine, it was a mess.
However, I didn’t shy away from acknowledging my mistake. I stood in front of the attendees, admitted my error openly, and apologized sincerely.
Instead of blaming the technical team or making excuses, I accepted responsibility for the mishap.
This wasn’t an easy thing to do, but I knew it was the right thing. And this is what integrity looks like – owning up to our mistakes and taking responsibility for our actions.
3) Treating others with respect
People with high integrity have a deep-seated respect for others. They understand that every individual has their own unique journey, perspective, and challenges.
They don’t belittle or disregard others based on differences, but rather, appreciate the diversity in human experiences.
In my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego“, I delve into the concept of ‘metta’ or loving-kindness.
This is an integral part of Buddhism that emphasizes the importance of respecting and caring for others, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Integrity involves applying this principle of respect in our day-to-day interactions. It’s about treating everyone – from your boss to the waiter at your local café – with equal kindness and consideration. It’s about understanding that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
4) Practicing humility
High integrity is also closely linked with humility. People with high integrity don’t feel the need to boast about their achievements or seek validation from others.
They’re comfortable in their own skin and understand that self-worth comes from within, not from external applause.
This trait is rooted in psychology. According to the Dunning-Kruger effect, a cognitive bias where people of low ability at a task overestimate their ability, it’s often those who are truly competent who underestimate their abilities.
Some may see this as humility, but it’s also a sign of integrity – acknowledging that there’s always room for growth and learning.
Moreover, people with high integrity appreciate the contributions of others and give credit where it’s due.
They don’t hog the limelight but share it with those who have helped them along their journey.
As renowned psychologist Carol S. Dweck once said, “Becoming is better than being.”
This speaks to the essence of humility and integrity – embracing the journey of personal growth instead of fixating on the destination.
5) Saying no when needed
Here’s a trait that might surprise you – people with high integrity know how to say no.
While it might seem more noble to always say yes, agree, and oblige, sometimes, integrity means standing your ground and saying no.
It’s about recognizing your boundaries and not overcommitting or compromising your values just to please others.
This trait demonstrates respect for one’s own time, energy, and principles.
In psychology, this is closely linked to self-care and mental health. When we constantly say yes to things that don’t align with our values or drain our energy, it can lead to stress and burnout.
On the other hand, saying no when needed is a sign of strong self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
As the famous psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.”
This includes the ability to say no when necessary, to protect our integrity, peace of mind, and mental well-being.
6) Keeping promises
Integrity is deeply intertwined with trustworthiness, and one of the most tangible demonstrations of this is keeping promises.
People with high integrity understand the value of their word and strive to honor their commitments.
Whether it’s returning a borrowed book on time, or sticking to an agreed deadline at work, these actions reflect a person’s level of integrity.
They show respect for others’ time and trust, reinforcing relationships and fostering positive connections.
This concept is backed by psychology, emphasizing that trustworthiness and dependability are key aspects of building strong relationships, both personal and professional.
7) Embracing honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable
Honesty is a cornerstone of high integrity. But truth be told, being honest isn’t always easy. There have been times when telling the truth seemed like the harder path, with potential for causing discomfort or conflict.
There was an instance where a close friend shared a business idea that, in my opinion, wasn’t viable.
Instead of blindly supporting to avoid hurting their feelings, I chose to share my honest feedback. It was tough, but I believed it was the right thing to do.
This form of honesty is often associated with emotional intelligence – the ability to manage one’s own emotions and those of others. It’s about understanding that short-term discomfort can pave the way for long-term benefits.
As renowned psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The greatest gift we can give to others is our honest self.”
8) Taking a stand for what’s right
The final sign of living with high integrity is taking a stand for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular or inconvenient. People with high integrity aren’t swayed by external pressures to conform if it goes against their values and beliefs.
They stand their ground, driven by a moral compass that points towards fairness, justice, and equality.
Identifying moral courage as a key aspect of integrity. This involves the willingness to face adversity in order to uphold ethical principles.
This trait isn’t about being stubborn or argumentative, but about having the courage to uphold your values in the face of opposition.
It’s about understanding that the right path isn’t always the easy one, but choosing it nonetheless because that’s what integrity demands.
In conclusion
Ultimately, living with high integrity is about embracing honesty, humility, respect for others, and the courage to stand up for what’s right. It’s about being true to ourselves and our values, even when the path gets tough.
In my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego“, I delve deeper into this journey of personal growth and how Buddhist principles can guide us in living with integrity.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
