You might think that it’s a no-brainer why one should live an honest life. But it’s apparent to me that a life of integrity is the exception rather than the rule. How many people do you know who are honest all the time? We could make a case about the morality and the “rightness” of living honestly. Religions have been advocating this for thousands of years, but it’s doubtful if many followers could provide a true model of integrity. I believe in the moral and ethical value of integrity but I also think there are very practical and worthwhile reasons for living an impeccable life. The right thing to do is seldom the easy thing to do. But it’s worth it.

• 1. Trust. In order to be successful in anything, a person must have a reputation of honesty.
• 2. Good Health. People who tell the truth are healthier. They have less concern, less stress and feel better about themselves. This has to translate into better health.
• 3. Pride. I’ve yet to meet a liar who has any real pride in themselves.
• 4. Peace of Mind. It’s impossible to worry and be happy at the same time.
• 5. Remembering. It’s been said that no one has a good enough memory to be a good liar.6. Good Sleep. If you lie—unless you have no conscience at all—you’ll often lose sleep because of your fears of being found out.
• 7. Confidence. There’s no way to have real confidence in oneself when you’re walking on “bull.”
• 8. Good Relationships. The more one trusts the better the relationship he or she is in, whether personal or business,
• 9. Legal Problems. We don’t have to look very far to see the legal trouble people get themselves into from dishonesty.
• 10. It Doesn’t Work. All too often our deceptions and duplicity are discovered.