Integrity: If you don’t stand for something, You’ll fall for anything
Do you act with Integrity?
Ever heard the phrase “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything”? I remember liking the phrase the first time I heard it. It sounded kind of cool, and a clever play on words. But its really about integrity.
Whilst I’ve enjoyed the phrase, I’ve also thought more about the phrase over recent weeks and it now makes me think of the numbers of people I see in the workplace who are the Yes Men and Women. They say whatever they think their boss or significant other leader wants to hear. That is not acting with integrity; and that is not differentiating yourself.
So at best you’ll be seen as just one of the masses, and at worst an employee with no original thought. Neither one of these will be good for your career.
”If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.”
So what do you want to stand for?
Well, have a think about whats important to you. What values do you stand for? What business skillset or expertise do you feel proud of having? What is your brand?
What if the next time a discussion is being had, you reflect on how the ideas suggested fit with your values or skill set?
Do you have a different view?
- Why?
- Is it important enough to share? (Probably!)
- Be confident but humble, no need to railroad your idea disrespectfully. But make sure you present it and explain why you think it could help the cause. Any good leader will recognise and value your input even if they don’t feel its quite right at that time.
In Conclusion: Your Takeaways
- Figure out what you stand for – what is your brand – how do you want to be remembered
- Look to contribute to the ideas and contributions based on your values
- Be Confident and Humble in sharing your ideas
Good luck
