People trust leaders who have the integrity to embody the values they espouse—leaders whose actions consistently align with their words.
There are few secrets when it comes to character.
People are always watching. They compare what you say against what you do to determine whether you are worthy of their trust.
Good leaders consistently do what is right over what is easy. They don’t take shortcuts or sacrifice their values for the sake of expediency. They understand that the end does not justify the means.
They live their values—especially under pressure, when it would be easier not to.
Great leaders take a long-term perspective. They understand that trust is the most valuable currency they have.
Trust is earned slowly, through consistency and character…
but it can be lost quickly when actions fail to align with words.
And once lost, it is difficult to regain.
Integrity is having the courage to live your values, even when others may not agree with your decisions. In fact, people will often respect and trust leaders who are consistent and principled—even when they disagree with them.
So the question is not just whether others can trust you.
Do your team members know where you stand when it comes to your values?
And more importantly…
Are you consistently demonstrating the strength of character to live them?
Challenge
Can you trust yourself to do what is right when it’s hardest?
