Why taking the high road improves trust

Working with a high level of integrity often feels like a burden at first. It often causes people to limit their opportunities, lose deals, and sometimes even look foolish. The allure of quick success and the panic of desperation can be very convincing litigators in moments that matter. But then something changes. Sometimes quickly, but more often slowly. People begin to see who you really are (on both sides of the equation) When you compromise: • Those quick successes turn out to be fewer and far between. • The people who you told you what you wanted to hear become more demanding. • You find yourself working harder to achieve less (this is mostly because people take a step back...but they're usually too nice to tell you) When you choose to live above reproach: • Early deals may take longer to close at first, but the relationships last much longer. • Your reputation becomes a magnet for like-minded individuals and opportunities, building your brand and influence in the long term. (the people you respect most will begin to tell your story) • You still have to work hard (you always do) but what you are able to achieve begins to multiply In a world often seeking shortcuts, those who choose the high road in business and life are the ones who carve out lasting legacies. Keep showing up, doing the hard work of building a legacy of integrity. It the only thing that has an ROI across every aspect your life. #integrity #legacy #strategy #entrepreneur #startup

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐈 𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 Personal Story: One of the turning points in my career was when I took over a development and testing team under significant stress. The environment was hostile, and trust was scarce. Inspired by 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐌.𝐑. 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐲'𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 ‘𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐄𝐃 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭,’ I decided to change my approach. Instead of blaming others for the lack of trust, I worked on my attitudes and behaviors to build trust step by step. By listening more, communicating openly, and showing consistent integrity, I gradually transformed the team's dynamics. We moved from a place of conflict to one of collaboration. It wasn’t easy, but this experience taught me that true leadership starts with self-improvement and the commitment to foster trust in every interaction. As I continued to implement these changes, I noticed a significant improvement in our team's performance and morale. We began to complete projects more efficiently, and the quality of our work improved. This journey was not just about enhancing my leadership skills but also about empowering each team member to contribute their best, fostering a culture of mutual respect and shared success. The transformation was a testament to the power of trust and effective communication. It reinforced my belief that leadership is not about authority but about influence and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to excel. A person leading a team meeting in a modern office 🔗 Discover more such inspiring stories in "Developers Road Ahead": https://lnkd.in/gvnZ9dmx 💬 Have you ever faced a challenging environment at work? How did you turn it around? Share your experiences in the comments! #DevelopersRoadAhead #Leadership #Trust #PersonalGrowth #CareerJourney #TechCommunity #TeamDynamics #Communication #Integrity #TechLife #Inspiration #CareerDevelopment #ContinuousLearning #Motivation #SuccessStory #CommunitySupport Follow for more insights and stories from "Developers Road Ahead."

Taking the high road actually works. Here’s why: When you’re faced with a blame-shifter or credit-stealer at work… It can feel almost impossible to stay professional. 🔥 Your gut says: “Fight back.” But research shows your response doesn’t just end the moment. It shapes your leadership brand. Here’s what happens when you choose integrity, even when others don’t: 🟢 Your reputation silently compounds ≫ Each dignified response is a “trust deposit” with those watching ≫ People remember your conflict management more than your day-to-day skills 🟢 You’re seen as the safety builder ≫ Owning mistakes signals learning, not image management ≫ Staying confidential shows you’re trustworthy 🟢 Grace under pressure becomes your brand ≫ Colleagues seek your input and trust your guidance ≫ You attract others who share your values 🟢 You reshape culture by example ≫ People mirror your actions—a process called “normative influence” ≫ You become a “cultural antibody,” protecting against toxicity ↓ ↓ When you feel triggered, try these evidence-based resets: ➊ Pause 3 seconds—a breath dampens the knee-jerk reaction ➋ Ask: "How would the leader I aspire to be respond?" ➌ Use a neutral phrase: “Let me think on this and circle back.” I’ve seen leaders build extraordinary careers, not by politicking, but by taking the high road, especially when it’s hardest. That character becomes their advantage. P.S. What are others ways we can respond to toxic behavior at work? ♻️ Share this to help others navigate workplace negativity with integrity 👍 If this resonated, drop a me like or leave a comment

✨ Taking the High Road: Leadership Rooted in Ethics and Integrity ✨ As the Board Chair of Chicago Better Business Bureau, an organization grounded in ethics, trust, and accountability, I’m reminded daily that leadership isn’t just about achieving results—it’s about doing the right thing, even when it’s the more challenging path. I have been a member of the board of directors for over 20 years and am a strong advocate for the importance of the work of the bureau. They are a hard-working team making the world a better place! I recently needed communication advice on a situation with a partner. I called one of my most trusted colleagues and asked, "I received this message from my colleague; now, what should I do?” Without hesitation, he said, “Take the high road.” I knew instantly that he was right and what to do. Coincidentally, over the past week, I’ve received several calls from colleagues and clients where they presented situations where they were slighted, marginalized, disrespected, and treated without integrity. They all asked me the same question: "Kim, what should I do?" After reflecting together, the answer became clear in each instance—taking the high road was the right choice. The high road isn’t always easy, especially when it feels like you’re getting the short end of the stick. It demands intentional choices, transparency, and sometimes saying no to shortcuts that could compromise values or sticking it back to someone who stuck it to you. But in the end, choosing the high road builds trust, strengthens relationships, and drives long-term success. I would also add that you will sleep well at night knowing you did the right thing. In a world filled with complex business challenges and pressures to cut corners, and some less than stellar examples set, I challenge all leaders: -Lead with Integrity: Your reputation is your most valuable asset. -Prioritize Ethics: Doing right by your customers and team creates trust that money can’t buy. -Hold Yourself Accountable: Align your actions with your words—it’s the key to credibility. At the BBB, they help businesses navigate tough decisions by focusing on ethics because trust isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of thriving communities, resilient organizations, and creates a environment where everyone has a fair shot at success. The high road is always worth it. Let’s continue to set the standard and inspire others to follow. If you aren't an accredited business with the BBB yet, learn how to here: https://lnkd.in/d3CqWkSR Aspiration Catalyst® #Leadership #Ethics #Integrity #Trust #BBB #DoTheRightThing #LeadWithPurpose #LongTermSuccess #Leadership #Ethics #Integrity #Trust #BBB #LeadershipDevelopment #LeadWithPurpose #DoTheRightThing #BOLDLeadership

Leading Through Adversity: How to Handle Haters with Strength and Integrity Every great leader faces resistance. The more you push forward, the more opposition you attract. If you're doing something worthwhile—whether in business, leadership, or life—expect pushback. One of the greatest examples of handling adversity with wisdom and strength comes from the story of David. Before he was a king, he was a leader on the run, facing relentless opposition from Saul, who sought to destroy him. Despite the betrayal, criticism, and threats, David consistently handled his challenges with wisdom, restraint, and integrity. His example teaches us three critical lessons for handling haters in leadership today: 1. Pause Before You React When faced with conflict, the easiest response is to react emotionally. But David repeatedly sought guidance before making decisions—he prayed first instead of acting impulsively. Wise leaders do the same: Take a moment to reflect before responding to negativity. Recognize whether criticism is an opportunity for growth or just noise. Focus on long-term success instead of short-term emotions. Not every battle needs to be fought. Some are won by patience and wisdom. 2. Distance Yourself from Negativity David knew when to remove himself from toxic situations. He didn’t engage in every fight; instead, he moved strategically to avoid unnecessary conflict. Great leaders understand this principle: Avoid getting pulled into gossip, office politics, or drama. Set boundaries with people who drain your energy. Stay focused on your mission rather than being distracted by those trying to bring you down. True leadership isn’t about proving yourself to critics—it’s about staying the course despite them. 3. Take the High Road—Choose Honor David had multiple chances to take revenge on Saul, but he chose restraint and integrity. Leadership often presents similar moments—times when cutting corners, seeking payback, or compromising values might seem tempting. But true success comes from choosing honor. Show integrity even when others don’t. Lead with character, even when it’s inconvenient. Do what’s right, not what’s easy. Great leaders are remembered not just for their achievements, but for the way they handle challenges. A Final Thought: Adversity Means You’re on the Right Path "If there isn’t opposition, it might be because you’re walking in the same direction as the problem." David's life was full of opposition, but that opposition was proof he was headed toward something greater. The same applies to leadership today—pushback means progress. If no one is challenging you, ask yourself: Are you truly leading? Great leaders don’t let haters define them. They stay focused, stay ethical, and let their work speak for itself. Lead with wisdom. Walk with integrity. Keep moving forward.