One of the most important characteristics of leadership is integrity. Integrity is a “steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code.” It means you are true to your word in all you do and people can trust you because you do what you say.
The word integrity has deep meaning and is often intermingled with words like honesty and truthfulness. It connotes a deep commitment to do the right thing for the right reason, regardless of the circumstances. People who live with integrity are incorruptible and incapable of breaking the trust of those who have confided in them. Every human is born with a conscience and therefore the ability to know right from wrong. Choosing the right, regardless of the consequences, is the hallmark of integrity.
Integrity builds character, which creates the foundation of great leadership. Coach John Wooden said it well: “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” Live with integrity; lead with integrity.
Lead on Purpose 
May 3, 2011 at 4:33 pm
Dear Hopkin,
The above statement is just what I needed to hear today, as I have been having problems with a team mate of mine for whose supervision I am responsible. She has shown herself to be a poor team member and my on-going annoyance is just about to get the best of me. Your statment has helped me to re-focus my intentions so that I feel more confident dealing with her behaviors and how they affect the team rather than how they affect me. My sense of integrity–is mine along–i have no right to impose it upon her, however I do have the responsibility to the team to let her know how her behaviors are affecting us as a group.