Integrity means having strong moral principles and being honest, with a consistent and uncompromising adherence to ethical values. It involves doing the right thing at all times, regardless of circumstances, and aligning one’s actions with what is morally right and excellent
. Key aspects of integrity include:
- Honesty and truthfulness
- Consistency between values and actions
- Accountability and responsibility
- Reliability and trustworthiness
- Acting ethically even when no one is watching
The word "integrity" comes from the Latin integer , meaning whole or complete, reflecting the idea of wholeness and internal consistency in character
. In practical terms, a person with integrity keeps their word, avoids deception, and behaves ethically both personally and professionally. For example, in the workplace, integrity means being honest, respecting commitments, communicating openly, and taking responsibility for one’s actions
. Thus, integrity is fundamentally about moral uprightness, authenticity, and steadfast adherence to ethical principles in all aspects of life