Man of Integrity

How to Be a Man of Integrity

by John Ingrisano

Introduction
Sadly, I know too many people who have just about given up meeting a man of integrity. Too often, they are faced with users, takers, deceivers, manipulators or just goof balls who slouch through life with their baseball caps turned around and their pants too low.

I think the problem is that too many males these days do not know how to be men. From my experience (been a man for 57 years), here is what it takes to be a man of integrity.

INSTRUCTIONS
Things You'll Need
. The guts to want to be a man of integrity
. Self-discipline
Steps
Step One
Be steady. That is perhaps the highest compliment a real man can receive: being called steady. Not flashy. Not dangerous. Not cool. Steady!

Be the kind of man who provides for those who depend on you--coming home every night, working hard, being a good father, not changing your mind every time the wind of public opinion changes.

Step Two
Be reliable. If you say you are going to do something do it, even if no one is watching. Real men have principles that they honour.

Step Three
Be a man of integrity. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Make your word sacred.

Step Four
Be honest. Don't play games, cut corners or manipulate the truth. Speak the truth and have the guts the stand behind your own words. Be a person others can trust.

Step Five
Be strong. Our strength is one of our greatest traits. That does not mean being a tough guy, but it does mean taking responsibility--both the physical and emotional pain -- when the people who count on you are counting on you.

Forget whining and complaining. Even when you get hurt over royally, be strong. People will learn to count on you if you are a man of strength.

Step Six
Be a man of principle. When you speak, know why you believe what you are saying. Just as important, act according to your best set of principles.

Step Seven
Respect yourself. Walk, dress and conduct yourself with self-respect, like you know you are worth something.

Step Eight
Respect others. Belittling, manipulating and bullying others is a sign of weakness. A man of integrity treats others--especially women--with respect.

Step Nine
Recognize that you are an example, a role model. Be a positive one. You can make a tremendous difference in the lives of those who count on you.

Tips & Warnings
Women aren't sport. They want to be part of your adventure as a man, but they do not want to actually BE your adventure.

Check out John Eldredge's book, "Wild at Heart," for more on the best attributes of men.
Being a man of integrity has nothing to do with whether or not you show emotion or shed a tear at that soppy part in a chic movie. Some men like to keep their feelings to themselves. Others are okay with expressing them. That's your call, and it has nothing to do with your manliness.