Frequent, and profound introspection happens as we age. Most of us become more self-aware as we evolve through adulthood. We begin to define or even redefine what we stand for in life. The responsibilities associated with getting married and then raising children expose both our foibles as well as highlight important elements of our character. Questionable behaviors exhibited at a younger age tend to vanish when we are tasked with setting an example for those people who look to us for guidance. Some of us find ourselves regularly looking in the mirror to determine if we are living a life that we can be proud of. Ultimately, there are core tenants of our character that we live by. These are the principles that guide my life.

Integrity

It is important that all of those who interact with me, know that I am an honest man. Family and friends recognize that my word is my bond. That level of honesty earns valuable trust with those who matter most to me. I am proud of the fact that my truthfulness has never been questioned by anyone that calls me an ally.

Authenticity

It is critical to be real. It doesn’t mean that I have to offer my opinion on every subject. If I do share my thoughts on a specific topic, however, I must be both candid as well as thoughtful. Too many people shapeshift when they attempt to please all parties. They are afraid to polarize themselves, so they speak out of both sides of their mouth. This tactic seems to work well for politicians, but not for the rest of us.

Loyalty

My people know they can rely on me.  Meaning, when they face obstacles in life, I ensure that they don’t battle their challenges alone. These people can also confront me with difficult questions and know that they will receive a well-thought-out, candid response. The converse is also true. My tribe can be critical of me, as they realize that our relationship will not change because of their confronting observations. Once I have earned a committed connection, I recognize that these special individuals have my best interests in mind.

Accountability

If I am involved in any situation, no matter how minor, I assume responsibility for the outcome. It has taken me a while to recognize that I can’t shed culpability when the results associated with any personal endeavor are suboptimal. It has become important for me to address my failures in a proactive manner. That means that I now quickly highlight my shortcomings so we can then work hard to move forward. It is important that we quickly move on so we can work to achieve the collective objectives.

Positivity

It is difficult to maintain an optimistic outlook when you square off against a serious life event. That said, it is necessary if you are going to survive and ultimately thrive. I am always amazed when I learn about people who battle major challenges with an unrelenting optimistic outlook. They seem at peace with their predicament, and they will not allow their problematic circumstances to undermine their perspective on life. Existing in this world means that you will be forced to confront unpleasant circumstances. Consciously dealing with these situations with a cheerful demeanor is required if you are going to get beyond adverse dilemmas.

Resilience

Fear of failure has always been my Achilles Heel. I am not certain if it is the perceived embarrassment or the potential disappointment of falling short of my goals that has me so apprehensive. The associated anxiety of falling short of ambitions can be debilitating, but it must be motivating. It has taken both time and effort to create the required confidence that allows me to better absorb body blows. I have created a personal armor that allows me to modulate negativity so I can focus on the required tasks.

Discipline

It is important that I continuously perform the rigorous habits that make me better. It is challenging to remain diligent when the required duties are both physically and mentally tough. If there are proven best practices that will fundamentally change my personal trajectory, I work vigorously to employ them. If I falter, I offer myself not-so-subtle reminders to get myself back on track.

I don’t waver regarding my holding to my principles. They are the foundation of who I am, and what I am about. Nothing is perfect, and I recognize that there might be untimely regressions. Fortunately, these pillars of my character will remain unchanged.