Men of Integrity: 10 Ways to Embrace Integrity

Bobby Jones exemplified the belief that "Character is what you do when no one else is looking." Men of integrity prioritize honesty, truth, nobility, trustworthiness, kindness, and righteousness over personal gain. In the 1925 U.S. Open, renowned golfer Bobby Jones found himself facing a challenging decision. When his ball moved slightly in the rough grass, only he noticed the infraction that warranted a penalty. Despite it costing him the championship, Jones called the penalty on himself. When commended for his sportsmanship, he humbly replied, "That's like congratulating someone for not robbing a bank."

When integrity becomes deeply ingrained in our foundation, it becomes more than an option; it becomes a way of life. Here are ten ways to embody integrity:

1. Establish a moral foundation.

Consider the values that guide your life and anchor yourself in a firm belief system. Deliberate on the question of what drives your actions and make conscious choices aligned with your core principles.

2. Foster optimism.

Seek out and share stories that highlight acts of integrity rather than focusing on scandals or negativity. Prioritize endorsing integrity as a core value in your life, elevating it above criticism or cynicism.

3. Embrace consistency.

Avoid compartmentalizing your life and strive to be the same person in every setting. Commit to being a man of integrity and practice it consistently at home, work, and during leisure time.

4. Cultivate selflessness.

Combat the enemy of integrity, selfishness, by embracing the Golden Rule—treat others as you would like to be treated. Living by this principle inherently boosts personal integrity.

5. Surround yourself with supportive influences.

Find friends who encourage and uphold your commitment to integrity. Like Aaron and Hur stood with Moses, we all need friends who strengthen and support us through life's challenges.

6. Seek accountability partners.

Take accountability to the next level by asking a trusted friend to hold you accountable in areas where progress is needed. This mutual arrangement fosters growth and helps overcome weaknesses.

7. Practice transparency with your spouse.

Build a habit of sharing everything with your spouse, leaving no secrets between you. Honesty and openness have a profound impact on personal integrity.

8. Imagine the presence of respected individuals.

Envision the presence of someone whose opinion you value when making decisions or engaging in conversations. Consider how their presence might influence your actions and choices.

9. Teach your children accountability.

As cliché as it may sound, teaching is a reciprocal process. Every lesson we impart to our children is an opportunity for personal growth and reinforcement of our own values.

10. Focus on a "principle of the week."

Dedicate each week to discussing a specific principle at home, such as honesty, trust, or selflessness. Encourage family members to practice and share acts aligned with that principle during the week.

Take a moment to reflect on individuals in your life who embody integrity. What qualities do you admire most about them? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us celebrate those who inspire us.