17 Defining Traits of a Person with True Integrity

Written By Lisa Marley

Integrity builds trust with others because they know they can rely on you to be fair and honest. It makes you the kind of consistent and dependable person others want to be around. These are 17 defining traits that someone with true integrity may have.

Honesty and transparency

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Honesty is the foundation of integrity. Honest individuals always tell the truth, even when it’s hard. They are open about their intentions, actions, and mistakes. They avoid lying and half-truths, choosing to speak straightforwardly instead. According to Bolde, they are unapologetically themselves.

Let bygones be bygones

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Those with true integrity will also be very forgiving. Even when someone has harmed them, they are prepared to let go of their grudges and acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes. Their ability to forgive enables them to continue having positive relationships.

Accountability

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An essential quality of integrity is taking accountability for one’s choices and actions. People with integrity take responsibility for their failures and try to put things right. They don’t try to justify themselves or assign blame to others, says Hack Spirit. They are prepared to accept responsibility for their decisions and the results.

Love and understanding

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People with true integrity will often have a strong sense of compassion. Compassionate people have empathy and are driven to assist those in need however they can. Whether it’s a friend going through a difficult time or a complete stranger, people with integrity are respectful and courteous to everyone.

They’ve got guts

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It takes guts to stand up for what is right. If someone has true integrity they can stand up for what they believe in, even when it’s controversial or dangerous. They are always prepared to speak up against injustice, prejudice, or unethical behavior. Often this behavior will motivate others to be brave also, according to Psych Central.

Humble and self-aware

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One essential quality of those with integrity is humility. They are aware of their own limitations and value the contributions of their team members. They also aren’t afraid to acknowledge when they don’t know everything and will never claim credit for work they did not do. Their humility enables them to continuously develop and grow.

Fair to everyone

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Integrity relies on fairness. People with integrity are impartial and treat everyone equally, making decisions based on merit and unbiased standards. They aim to create an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed and be heard.

Loyal and dedicated

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The kind of person who has true integrity is dedicated to their duties, relationships, and morals. In good times and bad, they support their friends, family, and coworkers. In both personal and professional contexts, they are dependable partners and teammates that others know they can rely on.

Appreciative

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When people have integrity, they acknowledge the positive aspects of their lives and appreciate those who have supported them and given them opportunities. They note the contributions made by others and strive to express their gratitude.

Generous

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People with this quality give their time, resources, and help to others without expecting anything back. They are willing to share their benefits to make things better for those who can gain from it. Their generosity positively impacts lives, either by donating to charity or doing kind acts randomly.

Self-discipline

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This quality helps a person control their desires and stay focused on their goals and ethics. Even in difficult situations, they choose to act rightly due to their integrity. Their self-discipline helps them grow and learn, and it also inspires others.

Empathetic and sympathetic

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Integrity-driven people are usually highly empathetic, enabling them to establish stronger connections with others. They can understand and sympathize with issues that others may have. As a result of their empathy, their interactions are characterized by warmth and compassion, which is evident in both their speech and behavior.

Open-minded

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People with integrity are always open to new ideas and viewpoints. Understanding that every person has different experiences and opinions, they refrain from passing judgment or being prejudiced against others. They can grow and learn with all kinds of different people because of their open-mindedness.

Respectful

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Respect is given in all contexts when someone has integrity. They will listen to different viewpoints and treat people with courtesy, even if they disagree with them, valuing other people’s feelings and rights as much as their own. They also respect other people’s time and won’t delay them.

Empowering and supportive

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Someone who has true integrity is not the type who will exploit another person. They enjoy empowering others and assisting them in reaching their goals. A person with true integrity will never take advantage of others.

Consistency in all they do

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True integrity means consistently maintaining the same values and standards. People with this quality are trusted because they stick to their principles and actions, regardless of personal gain. According to Queens University, when they commit to doing something, they follow through and do it.

Patience and determination

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They say it is a virtue, but very few of us have the high moral standards required for virtues. People with true integrity don’t give up in the face of difficulties, setbacks, or frustrations. They recognize that everyone is on a unique path of development and learning, so they accept the shortcomings and errors of others.

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