Without integrity, leadership –and really just being a good human being –becomes hollow, trust crumbles, and the fabric of a strong team unravels. Embodying integrity is not just about following a set of rules—it’s about consistently aligning your actions with your core values, even when it’s uncomfortable or challenging.

When I was younger, I didn’t always act with integrity, and I had to explore my actions and behaviors as part of my healing and recovery process. This journey of self-discovery and growth has been instrumental in shaping me as a person and a leader. As I’ve matured, I’ve come to value integrity as a non-negotiable critical leadership trait. I hold myself and my team to the highest standards of integrity, a principle central to my book, The Ownership Mindset: A Handbook for Transforming Your Life and Leadership.

In The Ownership Mindset, I discuss the importance of completely owning your actions, decisions, and the outcomes they produce. At the heart of this philosophy is integrity. Without it, an ownership mindset is just another buzzword. True ownership, as I see it, involves holding yourself to a standard where your words matter, your actions reflect your values, and you are accountable not just to yourself but to those you lead.

I wanted to share some guidelines I use to ensure I always live with integrity. These are not just abstract ideas; they are practical steps that I use to navigate the complexities of leadership. I’d like to share them with you because I believe that by reflecting on your own integrity, you can strengthen your leadership and inspire those around you. I want to thank Matt Tenney, who wrote a great book, Inspire Greatness, for helping me crystalize these.

1. Always Do the Right Thing

One of the foundational principles I live by is to always do the right thing. This might sound simple, but in reality, it’s often the hardest path to take. There are times when the “right thing” is unclear, but I’ve found that when I act with integrity, the outcome is invariably positive. Doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient, builds trust and sets a precedent for others to follow.

2. Always Tell the Truth

Integrity means being honest, even when it’s uncomfortable. As a leader, there will be moments when telling the truth is hard—perhaps because it might upset someone or because admitting a mistake could make you look vulnerable. But honesty is the bedrock of trust. In The Ownership Mindset, I emphasize the importance of transparency. When you consistently tell the truth, you create an environment where others feel safe to do the same, fostering a culture of openness and mutual respect.

3. Always Do What You Say You Will Do

One of the quickest ways to erode trust is to make commitments you can’t keep. I am very deliberate about my promises because I know that my credibility depends on my ability to follow through. Before committing to something, I ensure I have the resources, time, and ability to deliver on my promise. And if you can’t deliver on your commitment, because let’s face it, sometimes life happens, own it. Share why you can’t keep your commitment and offer to help find alternative ways forward. In leadership, your word is your bond—upholding it is non-negotiable.

4. Always Live Your Values

In The Ownership Mindset, I write the importance of understanding and living your values. When you compromise your values and beliefs, are they truly your values and beliefs? As a leader, aligning your personal values with your company’s values is critical. Always remember that your actions speak louder than words. Talking about integrity is not enough— you must live it every day. This means making decisions that reflect the values you hold dear, even when they are unpopular or challenging. When you lead by example, you inspire others to do the same, creating a culture where integrity is not just encouraged but expected.

5. Always Own Your Mistakes

No one is perfect, and mistakes are inevitable. What matters is how you respond to them. When you screw up, own it. This is perhaps one of the most difficult aspects of integrity because it requires humility and courage. But owning your mistakes is crucial for maintaining trust. It shows your team that you are human, that you are accountable, and that you are committed to continuous improvement.

To wrap things up, it’s important to note that integrity is not a one-time decision—it’s a daily commitment. It’s about consistently choosing to do what’s right, being honest, keeping your word, living your values, and taking responsibility for your actions. In my journey as a leader, I’ve seen how these principles not only strengthen my leadership but also empower my team to take ownership of their roles and contribute to the success of the company.

Incorporating integrity into your leadership style might not always be easy, but it is always worth it. By holding ourselves to the highest standards of integrity, we not only lead more effectively but also inspire others to do the same. And that, I believe, is the true essence of leadership. Because without integrity, what do you have?

Please consider ordering my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes

Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO!

And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!