The way we like to describe integrity is:
My ability to embody and live my beliefs, my values, my truth, and my motivation.
If we look at the different aspects of ourselves; mind, body, heart, and spirit, we begin to see that it is no mean feat to combine all aspects and remain ‘whole or complete’. There can sometimes be a gap between what we believe about ourselves and being in integrity, and what we are able to embody and live from moment to moment.
In our view there are 4 basic steps to remaining in integrity:
Firstly a level of self-awareness to understand and know what each of these aspects of self are and what conflict arises within as a result of the interaction of each of the elements.
It secondly requires a certain discipline to be able to try and embody these traits in each moment, as integrity is a moment by moment proposition. I am either in integrity or out of integrity in this moment.
It requires a deep level of honesty to be able to realise when we are out of integrity; that is when our beliefs, truth and our motivation are not being embodied and lived.
Finally it requires a commitment to compassion for oneself- and others. As integrity is a moment by moment proposition, it is normal and natural to find ourselves unable to embody our beliefs, values and truth at least some of the time. A commitment to compassion acknowledges this without the need for judgment or condemnation, but instead asks the question, ‘How do I move back into embodiment of my beliefs, values, truth and motivation- that is, into my integrity, now?’
Take a moment to feel into yourself – are you in integrity right now? Try to notice in your next interaction with another person. Set an intention to remain in integrity as often as you can.