Integrity
Over the years there have been many studies showing a high level of integrity by entrepreneurs in general. Given that these studies rely on self-reporting, I tend to put more faith in my own observations. When I look at successful entrepreneurs, I continually see that growth and integrity go hand in hand.
Perhaps because they have already reached a level of success, they are not tempted to cheat. That’s certainly possible. My gut tells me, however, that growth comes in part because the leader has integrity, not vice versa.
The expression, “Cheaters never win,” isn’t always true if winning means money. I have met plenty of cheaters who have gotten rich. However, it has been my experience that most thriving entrepreneurs are significantly more concerned with ethics, community, and “doing the right thing” than the average citizen. I do know this: Integrity makes the road to success much easier.
