By Bronwyn Ison
One of the most important values your parents could teach you as a child is integrity. You would think most people would have a great sense of this value. Unfortunately, time and time again I have either experienced or witnessed a lack of this important attribute. Integrity is doing the right thing, at all times, when nobody is watching.
Building a reputation of integrity can take years, but it can take only a second to lose. It would be wise to never compromise yourself. I’m sure you can recall being at the receiving end of someone’s lack of ethics. Those of us with this important quality may ponder how someone was able to gain power, grow their business quickly, or receive an award they truly didn’t deserve. Not everyone and not in every circumstance is someone’s success built on dishonesty. However, keep in mind a person who has built their business based upon deceit usually experiences temporary success. Having known a few dishonest people in my life I’ve recognized they are miserable. Beware they may speak poorly of you and attempt to tear you down to make themselves look good.
A person with insufficient morals will be willing to do anything to glorify themself or their business. Be quick to recognize their shortcomings and move swiftly to a more positive direction. If a person trusts you they will be pleased to share the good news about you, your business, or your product. I am more than happy to share a positive experience. However, many people are quick to share their negative outcome because it creates a sense of gossip. Unfortunately, many thrive off negativity and adversity.
A person’s character flaws will eventually catch up to them. It is inevitable. Consider the quote by Warren Buffet, Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, “In looking for people to hire, look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And, if they don’t have the first one, the other two will kill you.” I like to reference a person who lies consistently as a slow fade. Their demise may not be instantaneous but you can bet their lies and deceitful ways will reap a reckoning.
Be truthful in all that you do. Do what is right when no one is watching. You will be rewarded. Remember, your reputation is your stock and trade.
Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. E-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA
