photo credit: contemplativechristian

I don’t know about you but I am tired of people being scammed and bilked out of their money. Doesn’t it just sicken you when you hear about crimes like those committed by Bernie Madoff? What do you think about all those Internet scams and work at home scams. Where has integrity gone? Do we still know the definition of integrity?

 

What is integrity?

 

There are many ways to describe integrity. Here’s a simple description:

 

• Consistently doing the right thing even when no one is looking
• Doing no harm
• Delivering more than is expected

 

 If we as entrepreneurs and small business owners (and human beings) would simple do these to things, we could change the face of business.

 

Doing the right thing

 

I believe we all have an inner voice that helps us discern right from wrong.  Do what you know is right.  Be honest with your clients, your spouse, your family, your coworkers and yourself.

 

Be consistent in doing the right thing. Do it when people are looking and when people are not looking. It is liberating.

 

Doing no harm

 

Whether you are thinking about creating new products, advising your client or launching a new marketing initiative decide to do no harm. Always think about the effects your words and actions will have on others.

 

Deliver more than expected

 

I believe this is a part of living in integrity because so customers are so often disappointed with the quality of products and the level of service they receive from businesses. In order to exercise integrity, manage expectations and then over deliver. Say what you are going to deliver and deliver more. Go the extra mile.

 

The Power of integrity

 

Integrity is a powerful currency. When you live a life of integrity here are some of the powerful things happen for you:

 

• You develop a good name which opens doors for you
• You become more confident
• You simplify your life
• You live life in a state of positive flow
• You attract like-minded people who will help you meet your goals
• You gain credibility and favor
• You move towards your goals faster and you achieve more of your goals.

 

Action steps

 

Make a commitment to day to live you life with more integrity.  Make up your mind to do the right thing, look out for the best interest of others, and deliver more than what is expected of you. You will be rewarded in ways that you can’t imagine.

 

I would love to hear from you. How do you define integrity?