Leading With Integrity

Before you can lead others, you must first lead yourself.

Before you expect integrity from others, you must first lead yourself with integrity.

Be fair and honorable in your business dealings. It’s the only way that you and your employees can leave a legacy to be proud of.’

Never lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do. The culture of your organization starts with you.’

Own your lapses in judgment. It happens to everyone. Correct the problem and return to being a person of good character.’

Only promise what you can deliver. The quickest way to lose trust is to overpromise and underdeliver.’

Be decisive. Don’t take too much counsel of your fears. Be thoughtful, but not paralyzed by indecision.’

Be humble in your demeanor and your expectations.’

You are not entitled to anything but more hard work.’

Attack each day as though it were critical to the organization’s success.’

‘Accept the fact that this will lead to zealousness and the occasional screwup. This overenthusiasm is better than a culture of inaction.’

Learn from your mistakes and be prepared to take the next big risk. Don’t let a single failure define you.’

No great leader was ever timid or weak-kneed.’

Source:

Admiral William H. McRaven (2023). The Wisdom of the Bullfrog: Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy)

How To Get To The Top On Your Own Terms

You can get to the top if you are willing to do the work. You must, according to Josh Altman, ‘constantly be creating your own opportunities.’

Whatever you are doing right now, do it well. Because it is the beginning of where you are going. Your future depends on what you are doing right now.

According to Lauren Maillian Bias, ‘It doesn’t matter why the door opens. If it opens, don’t hesitate to walk through it, but be prepared to work harder than expected. Expectations of you are always higher than they may outwardly seem.’

‘Learn to clearly communicate in a way that commands respect, but isn’t abrasive.’

Always be committed to the job at hand. Do it well and get noticed enough to move forward.’

Show that you can persevere with grace during difficult situations. Problems are a part of life, and we all encounter them, but how you handle them will be most memorable.’

When people show you their true colors, believe them. Don’t make excuses for other people’s negative behaviors.’

Treat everyone like a rock star.’

Know when to hold out for what’s most important to you.’

Always be the bigger person and rise above the nonsense. Remember: The actions of those who would tear you down are a reflection of them. Don’t let someone win by dragging you into his or her mud puddle.’

Own your voice, control your narrative, and be deliberate in your communication.’

You are your reputation, not your company or your title. It’s all about you– the impresssions you leave, the interests you pique, the conversations you start.’

Stay grounded and never lose sight of your moral compass.’

Seek to work with people with integrity. You can always find higher ground when you’re working with good people.’

Every time you’re faced with a major decision, ask yourself: ‘Is it worth it even if I fail?’ If the answer is ‘yes,’ go for it!’

Live life on your terms. Do what works best for your life as defined by you and no one else.’

Source:

Lauren Maillian Bias (2014). The Path Redefined: Getting to The Top on Your Own Terms