Integrity Quote by John D. MacDonald
““Integrity is not a conditional word. It doesn't blow in the wind or change with the weather. It is your inner image of yourself, and if you look in there and see a man who won't cheat, then you know he never will. Integrity is not a search for the rewards of integrity. Maybe all you ever get for it is the largest kick in the ass the world can provide. It is not supposed to be a productive asset.””
About This Quote
Integrity is an unwavering inner moral compass, not dependent on external rewards, and may bring harsh consequences.
In simple terms: Integrity is staying true to yourself despite outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Uphold personal integrity.
Themes
morality
character
self‑respect
consequences
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- personal decisions
- business dealings
- relationships
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What does integrity cost you?
- Can integrity be taught?
A Different Perspective
Integrity can be costly without immediate benefit.
![“The dividing line [between friends and acquaintances] is communication, I think. A friend is someone to whom you can say any jackass thing that enters your mind. With acquaintances, you are forever aware of their slightly unreal image of you, and to keep them content, you edit yourself to fit…” quote by John D. MacDonald](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/955/john-d-macdonald-8277_acquaintance_the-dividing-line-between-friends-and-ac_444661.jpg)
![“[To] me organized religion, the formalities and routines, [is] like being marched in formation to look at a sunset.” quote by John D. MacDonald](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aa3/john-d-macdonald-8277_formality_to-me-organized-religion-the-formalities_483678.jpg)
