Honesty

(vs. deception)

Being truthful in what I say and do

To practice Honesty I will:

• tell the truth
• encourage others to be truthful
• not cheat or steal
• admit when I am wrong
• not exaggerate to make things seem different from what they are

Picture water as it ripples from a central spot. Being honest resembles those ripples. When we are truthful today we set ourselves up for being believed in the future. Each truthful act builds our future credibility ripple by ripple. When we operate in a manner that is consistent with our core integrity, we are true to ourselves. We become consistent and predictable, just like the ripples in the water. The more consistent we are with our core, the more we reveal that core to others. The more we act with integrity the more we reinforce that core. Truthfulness builds relationships and links us to each other just as the ripples build out from the center. Deception, on the other hand creates distance and can sever relationships.

This month, practice honesty and watch it ripple.

“There are only two people who can tell you the truth about yourself – an enemy who has lost his temper and a friend who loves you dearly.”
– Antisthenes 

“Honesty is always the best policy.”
– George Washington