Integrity: The Security of a Moral Compass
In the world of leadership, power is a peculiar thing. It can be addictive, and for many in positions of authority, the desire to maintain that power leads them to quickly reduce their integrity. We see it in the news and perhaps in our own hallways: leaders who prioritize success over the very principles they claim to value.
However, an effective leader knows that integrity is the only thing that ensures the longevity of both the leader and the team. While a shortcut might lead to a temporary win, a leader with integrity is more powerful in the long run because integrity is sustaining.
The Definition of Security
Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; it is moral uprightness. Without it, it is impossible to be an effective leader.
Think about the people you are willing to follow. You might follow a boss out of obligation because they sign your paycheck, but you follow a leader with integrity because you desire to be led by them.
As the ancient proverb suggests, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." Integrity provides a sense of security that allows you to lead with confidence, knowing your path is solid.
The Three Foundations of Integrity
To grow in your integrity, you need more than just good intentions; you need humility, resilience, and a firm set of values.
Humility - The Authentic Edge: Being an authentic leader requires humility. It means knowing that you do not have all the answers and being willing to admit it. This is especially powerful for more introverted leaders who may feel they need to fake it to lead. In reality, your humility allows you to rely on others to help you process important moments where you might be tempted to compromise.
Resilience - Staying the Course: Obstacles will inevitably get in your way as you pursue your goals. Resilience is what helps you recover from these setbacks without abandoning your character. When you are resilient in your goals, it protects you from compromising your integrity just because the path got rocky.
Values - The Non-Negotiables: A leader must have a strong moral compass to keep from changing course when things get difficult. Having a set of values that you and your team refuse to compromise on will drive you forward. If you as the leader become lax in embracing these values, your team will eventually do the same.
The Practical Audit: Bank Accounts and Calendars
It is easy to recite a list of things we say we value, but often, this is just lip service. What we say we value is often just what we wish we valued.
If you want to understand what you truly value as a person or as a leader, you should look at two things:
Your Bank Account: What you spend money on reflects your true priorities.
Your Calendar: You might pay for a gym membership (reflecting a value of health), but your calendar shows if you actually use it.
These two tools don't lie. They provide a clear picture of where you are standing strong and where you might be drifting away from the leader you want to be.
Why Integrity Matters In Leadership
Great leadership is the product of great character, and character is the legacy that outlives any job title.
When you choose integrity over the easy way, you are modeling for those around you how to face moments of potential compromise with strength. You are building a home and a vocation that are secure because they are built on a foundation of honesty and moral uprightness.
Your Small Step for Today
Take 15 minutes today with a pen and paper. Write down the things you may have compromised on over the last 24 hours. Did you hit the snooze button and show up late again? Did you eat something you knew you shouldn't?
The goal isn't to make you feel bad, but to help you realize how quickly compromise can happen. Understanding your drift is the first step toward walking securely in your integrity.
