The Power of Integrity: Doing What’s Right, Even When No One Is Watching

Integrity is the foundation of trust, character, and true leadership. It means living by your principles, keeping your word, and making ethical choices even when it’s inconvenient. A person with integrity doesn’t bend to pressure or take shortcuts—they do what’s right because it’s right. Integrity builds lasting respect, strong relationships, and a life of genuine success. Here are five insightful quotes about integrity, paired with a true story that proves why it is one of the most essential virtues in life.

A True Story: The Integrity of Abraham Lincoln

During Abraham Lincoln’s early years as a small-town shopkeeper, he accidentally overcharged a customer by a few cents. That evening, after realizing the mistake, he walked several miles to return the extra money. This small act of honesty earned him the nickname “Honest Abe,” a reputation that would define his entire life.

Later, as President, Lincoln’s integrity was tested on a much greater scale. Despite immense political pressure, he refused to compromise his moral principles and fought to end slavery, even when it made him unpopular. He once said, “I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true.” His unwavering integrity not only shaped American history but also left a legacy of moral leadership that endures today.

Lincoln’s story proves that integrity is not just about big decisions—it’s about the small, everyday choices that define who you are.

In 1785, George Washington wrote about integrity in a letter, emphasizing its role in leadership and character.

Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company.

~ George Washington

In 1841, Ralph Waldo Emerson discussed integrity in Self-Reliance, linking it to personal authenticity.

Nothing is at last sacred but the integrity of your own mind.

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

In 1943, Eleanor Roosevelt spoke about integrity in her syndicated newspaper column, My Day, underscoring its importance in public service.

To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart. Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

In 2001, Warren Buffett wrote about integrity in his annual letter to shareholders, explaining how it defines great leadership.

In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And if they don’t have the first, the other two will kill you.

~ Warren Buffett

In 2018, Brené Brown discussed integrity in Dare to Lead, highlighting its role in building trust and courage.

Choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is easy or fun; choosing to practice our values rather than simply professing them—that’s integrity.

~ Brené Brown

Life Lesson:

Integrity is not about convenience—it’s about consistency. Without it, trust crumbles, respect fades, and success is short-lived. Abraham Lincoln’s story reminds us that integrity is built in the small moments when no one is watching and tested in the big moments when everything is on the line. Live with integrity not because it’s easy, but because it’s the only path to a life of true honor, respect, and impact.