Embracing Integrity
 | Author:
Ellie West, Certified Master Practitioner of NLP, Time Line Therapy, and Hypnosis
Inside Inspiration: Certified NLP Coach/Practitioner Of Hypnosis and Timeline Therapy |
Embracing Integrity
Ellie West
Certified Master Practitioner of NLP, Time Line Therapy, and Hypnosis
In a world filled with challenges and temptations, one virtue is a light of courage, strength, and moral fortitude – integrity. Integrity isn't just a word; it's a way of life, a lantern guiding us toward genuine success and fulfillment. In a society where shortcuts and compromises may seem enticing, embracing integrity can lead us down a path that paves the way for a life of authenticity.
Integrity is often used as a business name and blueprint for many corporations. However, those who cultivate integrity understand that true success isn't measured solely by external achievements but by the internal satisfaction of staying true to oneself.
Integrity is not a quality that can be switched on or off; it's a consistent behavior pattern reflecting an individual's core beliefs. When you possess integrity, your words and actions are congruent, and others can trust that what you say is what you'll do. This trust becomes a valuable asset in personal and professional relationships, fostering deeper connections built on mutual respect and reliability.
Last week, as I was checking in for my commuting flight, I was notified that one of the flight attendants who was scheduled to work the flight had a medical issue and was removed from the trip. What that meant for the many passengers waiting to board was either a very lengthy delay or a cancelation. When I heard of the situation, I told the gate agent I was able and willing to work. I looked at the passengers as they were patiently waiting to hear if their flight would be leaving, and at that moment, I knew I had to do the right thing and offer to help.
It took almost forty minutes to get approved to work the flight, but the gratitude that the passengers and agents experienced outweighed any inconvenience. When we value others, we understand that it is not about oneself.
Sometimes, embracing integrity means taking the longer route, but it's a path that ultimately leads to sustainable success. Consider the tale of two individuals: one who chooses to compromise their values for immediate rewards and another who upholds their principles despite facing challenges. While the former might achieve rapid progress, it's the latter who, over time, will build a reputation for honesty, reliability, and moral strength – qualities that lay the foundation for lasting success.
Integrity isn't just about personal gain; it's also about contributing positively to society. When individuals act with integrity, they become role models, inspiring others to follow suit. Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and countless other luminaries didn't just change the world through their actions; they transformed it through their unwavering commitment to their values. By living with integrity, we become lanterns of light, guiding those around us toward a higher standard of behavior and accountability.
Integrity is intertwined with resilience. When faced with adversity, people of integrity stand firm, using their morals and values as a shield against the storms of life. They understand that setbacks are temporary, but the strength gained from navigating challenges with integrity is enduring. This resilience is a testament to staying true to oneself, regardless of external circumstances.
It's worth noting that the journey toward integrity can be challenging. Temptations, peer pressure, and the allure of instant rewards can test even the strongest resolve. However, during these testing moments, our integrity commitment shines brightest. These moments define us, shaping our character and building the foundation for our legacy.
A flight attendant friend shared that she had received an award for speaking up about safety. She knew the aircraft could be compromised during a flight due to a winter storm and heavy snow accumulation. In her heart and years of training, she knew speaking up was the right thing to do. Her internal compass of integrity did not allow her to shrink back - she stayed true to herself.
Can you imagine a society where honesty and accountability are the norm, where people are valued not only for their accomplishments but also for the strength of their character?
Embracing integrity empowers us to face challenges with steadfast resilience, and in doing so, we become rays of light in a world that can sometimes feel morally dim. I challenge you to embark on this journey of integrity, for in doing so, we discover our true potential and inspire others to walk the path of honor and authenticity.
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching,” ~C.S. Lewis
To connect with Ellie FB @coacheliewest Certified Master Practitioner of NLP, TLT, and hypnosis
