Generally, it is understood that each and everyone has a set way of seeing the world. Which is true; we all have a unique perspective. What is it that forms our unique world view? I personally think that we things that we ¨value¨ in life ultimately defines our world view.
For example, a person that values being on time is defined as being punctual. If this is consistent character, this becomes part of himself, his identity. On the other hand if someone values alcohol, if he is not tempered, he may be labeled a drunk/alcoholic. My point is that the things we cherish--assign value to-- define our actions and ultimately our character.
Fashionably, I hear a lot of people saying ¨everything is relative.¨ I don´t agree. In my view, the world has certain Principles that weave the fabric of space and time. A Principle is a natural law that dictates a cause and effect relationship.
I want to share with you what is my view on a specific Value:
Defined by the Oxford English dictionary is:
I particularly prefer the second definition "the state of being whole and undivided."
In its essence, to have integrity is to be of one whole piece.
We all have core beliefs (defined or not) of who we are and who we want to be. Unfortunately we don't always act according to what we truly believe. We make our decisions based on specific circumstances or situations. This is not a correct attitude. In fact, our conscious usually tells us when we have acted out of character or incorrectly. It's that divided feeling where we say "something is off" or "I'm not sure I did the right thing there." How can we leave this all behind?
The only way to become a person of Integrity is to:
Introspectively think of what is the code you want to live in. What are the unchanging values at your core that you will never change?
Live out your values. Regardless of the situation learn to be proud of where you stand your ground and know exactly where you will not compromise.
It is not easy to live with Integrity, specially at first. Deciding to live according with Integrity is like tempering steel; it is a process of tempering your character. Each time you follow through, you make your character more solid. It is also a process of renewal. You might fail and give in sometimes, but most of the time as you live with Integrity you will find a deep peace that flows from the inside-out.
Lastly, my favorite definition of Integrity comes from Stephen Covey:
inside-out congruence, which comes from living a life of integrity in which our daily habits reflect our deepest values.
