DO WHAT’S RIGHT, EVEN WHEN IT HURTS

Integrity in leadership means choosing to do what’s right even when it costs you time, money, comfort, or approval. From refusing to cut corners to telling the truth and setting the right example, strong leaders build trust by choosing what is right over what is easy.

Before becoming President, Abraham Lincoln was a partner in a general store that failed miserably. His partner bailed and didn’t leave any money to pay any of the debt left behind. Lincoln took on the burden of paying all the debt. He nicknamed it the national debt. It took him a few years, but he finally paid all of it off.

He did the right thing, even when it hurt.

That kind of leadership integrity is a standard for me personally, and one I expect of the EAG team. We do the right thing, even when it hurts.

Is it easy? No.

Does it lead to creating unparalleled experiences? Yes.

Don’t Cut Corners

Leaders are tempted to cut corners. An internal voice whispers that you can cut a corner or bend the rules in a certain area, and no one will ever know. It’ll save you time and money.

Ignore the voice.

Do what is right even if it takes you longer. It isn’t about getting there faster. It’s about achieving success with integrity and a reputation that is trustworthy.

Don’t cut corners.

Do what’s right, even when it hurts.

Leaders Set the Example

Leaders set the example, even when it hurts.

When you sit in the chair, all eyes are on you. Never forget that as a leader you live in a glass house. Everyone watches each step you take. Each word is judged and weighed. Decisions you make will be criticized and debated.

Don’t play to the crowd. Do what is right.

Even if it means people will chatter behind your back, be a person of integrity. You’re the leader. You set the example.

If you put a toe over a line, your team will view that as permission to run a mile past it.

Do what’s right, even when it hurts.

Leaders Tell the Truth

Leaders tell the truth.

Bending the facts might be beneficial, but it isn’t ethical. Lying might spare you pain now, but it usually leads to a mess later.

Be honest. Tell the truth.

People deserve to know what is really happening, not a sanitized version of the story. Don’t hide behind fancy statements or creative platitudes.

The truth can hurt, but it will create clarity.

If you can’t tell the truth, how do you expect your team to be honest with you, vendors, or customers?

Do what’s right, even when it hurts.

There Is No Version of the Truth

We live in an age when people say, “This is my truth.” Leadership doesn’t afford you the luxury of having your truth versus what is true.

A balance sheet is either positive or negative. A client is either delighted or underwhelmed. We either kept a promise or broke it.

There is no version of the truth.

In the world of leadership, doing what is right is always the best option. Standing behind an excuse will only make you look weak.

Will doing the right thing cost you money? Yes.

But it’s still the best option.

You’ll gain trust with the team and customers. Trust is the glue that builds successful businesses and allows teams to flourish.

This is a standard for me. It’s a standard for the team. I invite you to make it one of your own.

Do the right thing, even when it hurts.

Creating Unparalleled Experiences,

CHRIS ADAMS

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