http://leadersunderconstruction.com/6-qualities-of-highly-ethical-people/
No one ever sets out to live a morally-questionable life. In fact, integrity, which forms the foundation of ethical behavior, is a virtue that most people would say is both important and something that they demonstrate. Unfortunately, many individuals have drifted much further off the straight and narrow path of integrity than they realize. Let me ask you a simple question to help you assess the level of integrity in your own life: If you had to stand in front of your family, friends, team, employees, coworkers or customers and explain the details of everything you do and how you do it, could you do so and be completely honest? Sadly, many people could not. Whether it’s the husband who doesn’t want his wife to have access to his cell phone or the CEO who is dodging questions to cover his tracks, it seems like almost everyone has something to hide. It is for this reason that men and women of integrity are easy to spot–because they stand out from the crowd. Here are 6 qualities that help set them apart:
They keep their word
If highly ethical people say they’re going to do something, they do it. They are almost always on time, and if they’re late, you should be worried because something is probably wrong. They don’t break or cancel appointments and they are extremely dependable. They don’t make promises they can’t keep.
They establish genuine accountability in their lives
Those with integrity will seek out other people to help keep them accountable. Because accountability only works when an accountability partner sees the good, the bad and the ugly, these are usually family members or colleagues with whom they work very closely. They will also take advantage of technology to provide necessary oversight and guidance.
They avoid compromising situations
You can’t get burned if you don’t get close to the fire. Those with a high level of integrity avoid situations that could result in their character being called into questions. If there’s even a possibility that a decision could be perceived as immoral, they don’t make it.
They don’t make decisions based on personal cost or gain
The most important factor in their decision-making isn’t how they will personally gain or what it will cost them. The only thing that matters is whether or not the decision being considered is morally right, and those with integrity have a gift for inherently knowing what is right and what is wrong.
They confront injustice and unethical behavior
It’s not enough for them to steer clear of unethical behavior in their own lives. Highly ethical people tend to see themselves as moral compasses and will frequently call out ethics violations and injustice wherever they see it. They’re comfortable speaking up and are willing to suffer the consequences of standing up for righteousness.
They make mistakes just like everyone else
Highly ethical individuals are human beings and will occasionally violate their own beliefs and fail to act with integrity, just like everyone else. What sets them apart is how they respond. Once exposed, they usually acknowledge their behavior and are willing to accept the consequences of their decisions. They don’t try to cover up or make excuses for their wrongdoing.
Most people don’t understand how important integrity is until it’s too late. Apply these qualities of highly ethical people in your own life and enjoy the benefit of a life lived with nothing to hide. What other qualities could be added to this list?
