Integrity is the cornerstone of trust, respect, and a life of purpose. It’s the quality of being honest and adhering to strong moral principles, even when no one is watching. Living with integrity means aligning your actions with your values, building a foundation for meaningful relationships and a clear conscience. Integrity isn’t always easy—it demands courage, humility, and resilience—but it’s essential for a life well-lived. Here are five impactful quotes about integrity, paired with a true story that highlights its immense importance.
A True Story: The Athlete Who Refused to Cheat
In 1936, during the Berlin Olympics, Jesse Owens became a legend by winning four gold medals in front of Adolf Hitler, challenging Nazi ideologies of racial superiority. But another act of integrity defined his legacy. In the long jump event, Owens fouled on his first two attempts. His German competitor, Luz Long, who was favored to win, gave Owens advice on how to adjust his run-up. Owens followed his advice and succeeded, ultimately winning gold.
Luz could have stayed silent and secured victory, but he chose to help a fellow athlete because it was the right thing to do. Their act of mutual respect created a lifelong friendship, and Luz Long’s integrity turned a moment of competition into a powerful lesson in sportsmanship and honor.
In 1893, Mahatma Gandhi began speaking publicly about the importance of integrity, which he referred to as living in harmony with one’s inner truth.
To believe in something, and not to live it, is dishonest.
~ Mahatma Gandhi
In 1955, Dwight D. Eisenhower addressed the American people during his presidency, emphasizing the role of integrity in leadership.
The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.
~ Dwight D. Eisenhower
In 1989, Stephen R. Covey published The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, in which he explained how integrity underpins trust and effectiveness.
Integrity is when you are genuinely what you appear to be.
~ Stephen R. Covey
In 2006, Oprah Winfrey reflected on the importance of integrity during an interview about her career and the values that had guided her life.
Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody’s going to know whether you did it or not.
~ Oprah Winfrey
In 2011, Brené Brown shared her insights on integrity in her book The Gifts of Imperfection, connecting it to courage and authenticity.
Choosing to live and love with our whole hearts is an act of courage, but choosing to live with integrity is an act of self-respect.
~ Brené Brown
Life Lesson:
Integrity is not just about what you do—it’s about who you are. Without integrity, trust erodes, relationships suffer, and your sense of self-worth diminishes. Jesse Owens and Luz Long’s story reminds us that true greatness comes from doing what’s right, not what’s easy. Integrity builds a legacy that outlasts fame or fortune. It defines your character and creates a life of meaning and respect. In a world filled with shortcuts and compromises, let integrity guide your actions. Stay true to your principles, even when it’s hard—because nothing is worth more than your honor.
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