I read a lot of articles based upon the tweets of various folks I follow on Twitter and on occasion I come across one that really hits me between the eyes. The following excerpt comes from Christine McDougall’s Blog – Guinea Pig C – Why do we find integrity so hard? (http://lnkd.in/KKsYnW ) I was moved by the simplicity of the formula for integrity she pulled from Chip Conley’s book, “Emotional Equations: Simple Truths for Creating Happiness + Success.” Please read and also visit Christine’s blog (http://christinemcdougall.com/wp/ ) for more articles on integrity. In a recent blog post, I wrote about what is part of a good leadership foundation. I think Christine has swayed me to now also include integrity. Enjoy!
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Flipping through Chip Conley’s latest book, Emotional Equations, here is his equation for integrity.
Integrity = Authenticity x Invisibility x Reliability.
Authenticity is the merging of self awareness and courage. Self awareness is a life’s work. Few people take it up as a committed practice. Courage, well, courage is derived from ‘cour’ for heart. Courage takes heart, vulnerability, and action. It is not the same as bravado, which all bluster minus heart. Our world is full of bravado. We are enchanted by courage because it is so rare, especially from our leaders. We long for it.as we long to be courageous.
Invisibility is the act of being in integrity no matter who is watching, and especially when NO ONE is watching. It is grounded in humility. It holds service to others as its source code. Our personal agenda is secondary. Again, rare.precious.extraordinary when you encounter it.
Reliability means that you are your word. What you say is what you do is who you are. You keep your promises to yourself, and to others.
This is the work of integrity. Every aspect is required. It is great big huge work. It is the most important work on the planet.